South Carolina Secretary of State Mark Hammond encourages wise charitable giving in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew

In the wake of Hurricane Matthew’s devastating effects in the Caribbean and across the Southeast, Secretary of State Mark Hammond encourages South Carolinians seeking to help others to do so wisely.  “Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by Hurricane Matthew,” said Secretary Hammond.  “Just one year ago, South Carolinians demonstrated their strength, resiliency, and generosity in the face of unprecedented disaster.  I know that our citizens will work together again to rebuild our communities as well as those outside our state.  However, I simply ask donors to check out charitable organizations before making a contribution, to make sure their generosity reaches those in need.”

Donors may verify whether a charitable organization is registered with the Secretary of State’s Office by searching our online charities database at http://www.sos.sc.gov/.  Click on the “Charity Search” box on the right and enter the name of the charity you are researching. Users can also find a listing of “Helpful Websites for Charities” by visiting the Public Charities section of our website (http://www.sos.sc.gov/Public_Charities/Helpful_Websites_for_Charities).  In addition, donors may contact our Charities Division at [email protected] or 1-888-242-7484 for more information.

Secretary Hammond encouraged donors to follow these guidelines provided by Charity Navigator (charitynavigator.org) before responding to a charitable solicitation during a time of crisis:

Give to an Established Charity

Find a charity with a proven track record of success with dealing with the type of disaster and in the region in which the disaster occurred. If you feel compelled to give to a new charity, be sure to get proof that the group is in fact a registered public charity with 501(c)(3) status. Verify the agency’s legitimacy by using Internet-based resources rather than the charity’s purported website.

Designate Your Gift

By designating your gift, you’ll ensure that your donation will be used as you intended. Most charities with online giving portals offer a check box feature so that you can tell the organization how to spend your contribution. If you are mailing in a check, write a note in the memo section of the check specifying that you want your gift spent entirely on the current crisis.

Telemarketers

Be wary of fundraisers who pressure you to make a contribution over the phone. NEVER divulge your credit card information to someone soliciting you over the phone. Instead, ask the fundraiser to send you written information about the charity they represent and do some research on your own. Once you feel comfortable with the charity, send the organization a check directly in the mail, or give through their website, to ensure that your gift goes to the charity and not the for-profit fundraiser telemarketer.

“I want to remind you that you are our eyes and ears,” said Hammond.  “We need the public’s help to protect the charitable donors of this state as well as those who have been adversely affected by this natural disaster.  We want to hear from you if you have concerns about a charity that is soliciting contributions in your area.  Our office is proud to be on the forefront of charities enforcement, not only in South Carolina but also in collaboration with other states and agencies.  If you have concerns or have received a questionable solicitation, please call our office immediately at 1-888-CHARITI.”