LOS ANGELES — The response to the devastating wildfires has been incredible.

What You Need To Know

  • The wildfires burning across Los Angeles have killed at least 10 people, forced more than 180,000 to flee their homes, and destroyed thousands of structures

  • Already people and organizations from across the country are stepping up to support those impacted

  • The BBB has some tips to make sure your contribution is getting to the right spot

Already hundreds of organizations from multiple states are stepping up to help the victims of the devasting fires. Organizations like the Red Cross, Salvation Army, World Central Kitchen and even Matthew 25: Ministries in Ohio just to name a few. There are also hundreds of GoFundMe’s set up for families who have lost everything in the fires. 

Many people may be eager to help, but the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is urging everyone to exercise caution when donating to an organization or GoFundMe to ensure the money is truly going to help those in need.

There are always people who take advantage of these emotional situations.

“You're going to be watching for an increase in some opportunistic individuals who exploit donors' good intentions. Scammers and unauthorized fundraising efforts divert critical resources away from victims and families in need. Emotionally charged donors, that's you and me, we want to give. We may have a tendency to act too quickly, and that makes us vulnerable to some unclear or deceptive appeals,” said Lee Anne Lanigan, director of investigations for BBB of Central Ohio. “Donations can make a powerful impact, but only if they reach the reputable organizations with a proven track record of helping those in need. So verifying where and how your contributions are used protects both donors and victims.”

Ways to make sure you're donating to legit organizations include:

  • Throughoughly researching the organization
  • Make sure you know how your money will help those impacted 
  • Be cautious of high-pressure tactics or unusual payment methods
  • Never donate to a charity that contacts you unexpectedly and asks for immediate action without providing clear information about their cause

If you’re unsure, Lanigan said consider donating to well-known, reputable charities with a proven track record. Some of those organizations include The Red Cross, Salvation Army and established nonprofits based in Califronia like the California Fire Foundation and the United Way of Greater Los Angeles. 

Matthew 25: Ministries is working to send truckloads of critical aid to impacted communities. The organization is requesting monetary donations online or via check as well as product donations to their facility in Blue Ash located at 11083 Kenwood Road, Blue Ash, OH 45242.

To check a charity’s trustworthiness, you can go to give.org to access a list of BBB Accredited Charities or contact your local BBB directly.

Related Stories