For Immediate Release:
March 11, 2010
Consumer Affairs offers tips for helping people in need
A little homework can get your donation where it helps the most
FREEHOLD, NJ – With so much news focused on the earthquakes in Haiti, Chile and Taiwan, many county residents may want to help people in need. If you are thinking about donating money or sending supplies, the Monmouth County Department of Consumer Affairs has some reminders to help you donate your hard-earned dollars wisely.
“When people are facing desperate times and opening up their pocketbooks, there are con artists who are just waiting to prey on the public’s generosity,” said Patricia Watson, director of the Department of Consumer Affairs. “If you want to make sure your donation of money or goods gets to the people who need help, you should do your homework.”
Consumer Affairs recommends that if you are planning to make a donation to any charitable organization that you keep several things in mind:
- Do not respond to unsolicited e-mails;
- Be wary of unsolicited phone calls from someone representing a charity to help the victims of a disaster;
- Never ever give your personal information to anyone; and
- Do not fall for terms or mailings that imply that the business is part of a government agency. Since many companies close up and then startup again with a new name, contact Consumer Affairs at 732-431-7900 for a complaint history.
Charitable organizations who solicit donations from residents must be registered with the State of New Jersey. You can check their registration status at
www.njconsumeraffairs.gov or by calling the state Division of Consumer Affairs Hotline at 973-504-6215 for information and assistance.
On the national level, the FBI has created a NationalCenter for Disaster Fraud to report suspected disaster relief fraud. A telephone hotline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The bureau can also be e-mailed at disaster@leo.gov
The Monmouth County Department of Consumer Affairs is a law enforcement agency, created and funded by the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders. It protects against consumer fraud and dishonest and unscrupulous business practices by enforcing the state Consumer Fraud Act and other regulations.
More information can be found on the county Web site at
www.visitmonmouth.com or by calling 732-431-7900. The office is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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