AG's Office Warns About Scam Artists Trying To Take Advantage Of Those Donating To Nepal Victims
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Pittsburgh has a long history of generosity when it comes to helping out our fellow man in times of dire need all over the world.
But the Attorney General's Office today warned about possible scam artist trying to collect in the name of relief for earthquake victims. So, here are some guidelines if you want to help out those struggling to survive in the shattered country of Nepal.
Once again, Pittsburgh's own Brother's Brother Foundation is taking the lead in the local area in collecting funds and directing them to relief agencies on the ground in Nepal. Those agencies will use the money to purchase desperately needed necessities like food, water and shelter.
In addition, Brother's Brother will send medical supplies with three medical teams leaving Pittsburgh, Cleveland, and Loveland, Colorado, over the next 10 days.
In addition to Brother's Brother, the local Nepalese community has identified several other charities that are working either on the ground in Nepal or working with groups that are.
Here's the list of organizations the Pittsburgh Nepalese Community recommends if you want to help:
Mercy Corps
www.mercycorps.org/people/pittsburghnepalese/NepalEarthquake
Besides Mercy Corp., there are several organizations that have mobilized search and rescue efforts in Nepal as well, and they need all the help they can get.
The Nepalese Community of Greater Pittsburgh is coordinating this fundraising drive and asking that our friends and neighbors in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas consider giving to these organizations so that they can provide immediate relief to the suffering.
ANMF: American Nepal Medical Foundation
http://americanepalmedicalfoundation.com/
Click on "Please Donate here" to be redirected to Indiegogo website.
Brother's Brother Foundation
https://brothersbrother.org/donationform/
Please designate to Nepal Earthquake Relief
(Pittsburgh-based non-profit partnered with Himalayan HealthCare)
Oxfam America
Nepal Earthquake Relief and Recovery Fund
https://secure2.oxfamamerica.org/page/content/nepal_earthquake/
(Preparing for rapid response to ensure food and water reaches those in need)
World Vision
http://www.worldvision.org/
Nepal Earthquake Relief
(Focusing on immediate needs including providing first aid kits, sleeping mats, blankets and jerry cans; temporary shelter; and protection for children)
As you consider donating, keep in mind these words of caution from the Pa. Attorney General in choosing a charity to receive your donation:
• Be cautious when giving to a charity created in response to this specific disaster.
• Donate to a charity that has a proven history of dealing with large-scale disasters and international relief efforts.
• Be wary of charity messages posted on social media. Do your own research to confirm the legitimacy of the charity.
• If you receive a request to donate via text or email, confirm the request is from the charity by contacting their office or visiting their website.
• Beware of look-alike websites. Fraudsters will set up websites that mirror those of legitimate charities in order to secure your personal financial information.
The need in Nepal is great and will continue for weeks and months to come.
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