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5 questions to ask before donating relief funds

In the aftermath of the earthquake in Turkey, many organizations claim to offer aid, but some charities don't live up to their promises.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — As the death toll continues to rise in Turkey and Syria following last Monday’s devastating earthquake and aftershocks, providing emergency relief to the area is paramount. But before you make any donations, you should do some research to make sure your hard-earned money is going to a good organization.

The Better Business Bureau and Give.org suggest asking these five questions before making any donations to relief efforts.

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1. Can the charity access the impacted area?

Donating to an organization that already has a presence in the area helps to provide quick emergency relief.

2. Will this type of donation be helpful?

Donating to local clothing and food drives might not be practical because the goods collected then need to be shipped overseas.

3. What experience does the charity have in providing emergency relief?

Providing emergency relief is a major undertaking. Less experienced groups might not be able to provide the same level of relief as more experienced organizations.

4. What percentage of my donation goes to relief?

The BBB warns to be suspicious of any charity claiming 100% of the money donated goes to relief. Even a credit card donation has a processing fee. Furthermore, every organization has administrative costs.

5. Is the charity trustworthy?

Research the charity to make sure standards are being met. The Better Business Bureau compiled a list of vetted charities that can be found here.

SAMARITAN'S PURSE

Samaritan's Purse, an NC-based Christian relief organization, announced Monday that the organization has officially opened its Emergency Field Hospital in Antakya Turkey. The hospital has started receiving patients. 

Samaritan's Purse has 93 disaster response specialists on the ground since the devastating earthquake in Turkey, with more traveling there soon. If you want to support a local relief non-profit, you can donate to recovery efforts here.

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Carolyn Bruck: Contact Carolyn Bruck at cbruck@wcnc.com and follow her on FacebookTwitter and Instagram.


WCNC Charlotte is always asking "where's the money?" If you need help, reach out to WCNC Charlotte by emailing money@wcnc.com.

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