Who can forget the huge natural disasters that hit world-wide? Katrina? Tsunami? Andrew? They’re all household names ever since they struck us here and all over the globe. What is more impressive than these natural disasters however, is the outpouring of public support and donations which come after these things hit. Haiti was just demolished with a massive earthquake the other day, and the public reaction is very similar – donations and support from all over the globe.
What really disturbs me however are the people (if they deserve to be called people) that go out and try to swindle people out of their donations. They setup fake websites and fake email addresses, even fake addresses altogether to get people to send donations of cash and cheques to them instead of where they are intended. This was a huge problem during Katrina I seem to remember.
It was also announced today that Canada will match – dollar for dollar – any individual contribution or donation to Haiti (up to a maximum of 50 million). So whether you’re a part-time Subway worker, or a pleasanton motorcycle accident attorney (very random I know) – try to find it in your hearts to donate a few dollars.
My favorite tricks and tips site Lifehacker.com has also put up some tips on How and Where to Donate to Haiti (and Avoid Scams) which would be worth a read for sure.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Haiti. If you’d like to donate to the Red Cross, you can do so either online visiting www.redcross.ca/helpnow or by phone at 1-800-418-1111.