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Intense winds and rapidly spreading wildfires have devastated southern California, forcing more than 100,000 residents to evacuate their homes. As communities rally to support those affected, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) Wise Giving Alliance offers guidance to ensure donations truly benefit the victims.

While the generosity of donors is commendable, scammers often exploit disasters. The Better Business Bureau of Central & South Alabama shares essential tips to help donors make informed and impactful contributions.

Tips for Donating to Southern California Wildfire Relief Efforts

• Make Sure the Charity Is Trustworthy: Before giving, search for the charity’s report on Give.org to verify it meets BBB Standards for Charity Accountability. BBB Accredited Charities are reviewed for their trustworthiness.
• Look for Specific Fire Relief Activities in Appeals: Avoid vague relief appeals. Ensure that the organization clearly explains how your donation will be used to assist those in need.
• Watch Out for Click-Bait and Phishing Scams: Scammers often take advantage of public sympathy during disasters. Do not click on unsolicited email, text, or social media links. Instead, visit the charity’s website directly.
• Review Crowdfunding Requests: Some crowdfunding platforms thoroughly vet and screen campaigns, while others may not. Check the platform’s policies, verify the campaign organizer, and understand transaction fees before donating.
• Verify Charity Registration: In the U.S., around 40 states require charities to register annually. Check with your state’s attorney general or secretary of state’s office to confirm the organization’s registration.
• Understand Disaster Relief Phases: Disaster response occurs in three phases: rescue, relief, and recovery. Donations should align with the specific phase to ensure they meet the current needs. Learn more on BBB’s Supporting Disaster Relief and Preparedness page.

Verified Charities Accepting Donations

• American Red Cross – Supporting emergency relief and shelter services for wildfire victims.
• California Community Foundation Wildfire Relief Fund – Assisting with long-term recovery efforts and rebuilding homes and communities.
• See the full list of verified charities concerning the California fires here: https://give.org/news/trusted-charities-supporting-southern-california-wildfire-relief

BBB Wildfire Relief Resources

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) provides essential tips to help individuals and businesses navigate these challenges. Learn how to prepare for wildfires, ensure proper insurance coverage, manage post-damage recovery, and avoid scams targeting vulnerable communities during disasters. Stay informed and protected with BBB’s expert guidance at bbb.org/all/natural-disasters/wildfire-resources.

For more information on donating safely, visit Give.org.