People who wish to contribute to the relief effort are urged to beware of charity scams, which are especially prevalent online. Consumer advocates offer the following advice:
* Make sure the organization is legitimate. Some illicit organizations will try to confuse you by using a name that is similar to a well-known charity. Do your research to find a reputable charity. For a list of charity reports, visit the BBB Wise Giving Alliance Web site, www.give.org.
* Never respond to or click on a link within an e-mail asking for money and claiming to be from a charity. If you wish to make a donation online, stick with familiar, established charities and donate through their Web sites directly.
* Be skeptical of telephone solicitations. Never give out your personal or credit card information. Ask for a charity's exact name and address. After researching the organization, call back using its published number if you would like to get more information by phone.
* Give a check or money order made out to the organization, not an individual.
What are the best ways to help? The following is a partial list of organizations:
FINANCIAL HELP
American Red Cross
Provides emergency shelter, food, water and other critical assistance.
(800) HELP-NOW
www.redcross.org
America's Second Harvest
Donations help transport food to victims and secure additional warehouse space to assist member food banks in resuming and maintaining operations.
(800) 344-8070
www.secondharvest.org
VOLUNTEER GROUPS
Habitat for Humanity
Helps repair and rebuild homes damaged by the hurricane.
(229) 924-6935
www.habitat.org
Salvation Army
Provides food, drinking water, cleaning supplies and other necessities.
(800) SAL-ARMY
www.salvationarmyusa.org
Convoy of Hope
Provides supplies and other disaster relief, sponsoring outreaches to the poor and suffering.
(417) 823-8998
www.convoyofhope.org
ANIMAL RESCUE
Humane Society of the United States
(888) 259-5431
www.hsus.org - NU
