ELM Bulletin - January 15, 2010
Haitian Relief Scams
Last April I wrote an ELM Bulletin titled “Beware of False Benevolence” which warned of scams surrounding the Swine Flu outbreak. I encourage you to follow the link and read it again, this time with the horrifying tragedy of Haiti in mind.
It seems appropriate to re-state the caution of that ELM Bulletin to ensure that any assistance you may provide actually makes it to those who need it and not some despicable thief capitalizing on the pain and suffering of others.
We live in a fallen world, a world in which disasters are all too frequent and the face of human pain is sometimes far too near. Whatever the cause, it is at these times that the best among us step forward to render what assistance they can. If you are moved to do the same I encourage you to be careful of the channel you use. Already the worst among us are using email and other methods to steal what you would give from the very lives that need it most.
If you are moved to help I recommend that you use one of the following links. Each is a highly reputable and respected aid agency and each, to the best of my knowledge, had a presence in Haiti prior to this tragedy.
World Vision
The Salvation Army
The Red Cross
Samaritans' Purse
I will end this ELM Bulletin with some of the words that ended the April ELM Bulletin:
“There is nothing that we can do about these people except pray for them with the hope that they will be someday changed. Until then we will endure their selfishness. We need to remember that not everyone who offers to help those in need will actually do it. Some heartless souls will use the need of others as a hook to trick us to respond to their scam. They do this so they can steal the help we give out of the hands of those whose need is desperate. They do this so they can impregnate our computers with malware and steal even more from us. They do this because their only concern is for themselves.
When you receive email or see a website asking for your assistance to help those in need, be careful. Give your help through reliable organizations (see the links above). Be generous with what you have been given, and be careful that your kindness goes to those who need it instead of the thieves.
“Someday, these despicable actions will end.
Until then, be wary.”
As always, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions about this or any other issue.
Past issues of the ELM Bulletin are available from our website, feel free to forward them to anyone you wish.
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Peter Rhebergen Telephone |
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