Fire Victim Donations Flood Local Nonprofit

Learn How to Give With Confidence

Almost as soon as the flames flashed on TV screens, requests for donations began online. So far, the largest recipient is a San Francisco-based nonprofit called Gray Area Foundation for the Arts. Six thousand people have given a total of $300,000. The foundation is vowing it will devote it all to fire victims.

“It’s really numbing, but also really humbling to understand the community that exists around this tragedy,” said Josette Melchor with the Gray Area Foundation.

The Gray Area Foundation isn’t managing the flood of donations itself. It says it’s bringing in the Red Cross to make sure every penny contributed goes to someone who actually deserves the money.

“Everyone can trust that we are going to do this properly,” said Melchor. “I’ve had six friends reported missing, and I completely understand the impact of this, and I personally also want to make sure this is done fairly and justly.”

Gray Area Foundation is collecting contributions on youcaring.com. The Oakland A’s and Raiders are taking contributions there, too. It’s a coordinated effort. Yet, individuals can still ask for donations. Youcaring.com’s president warns us that some personal pleas will be legitimate, but others might not.

“Fraud in the guise of charity is a centuries-old problem,” said Dan Saper, president of youcaring.com.

So what do we do? Hold fundraisers accountable. Ask questions. If you don’t get answers, hold off. Ideally, make a personal connection.

“Give to people you know. Most of the time these fundraisers are for individuals in your community,” said Saper.

To donate on youcaring.com, go to its website.

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