<font color="#0033CC">OUR VIEW:</font> Give, but don't get taken

Local News

Discussion

November 13, 2009

Anonymous The Suwannee Democrat Fri Nov 13, 2009, 11:02 AM EST

Lots of folks are in need this holiday season here and elsewhere. Whether you choose to give, and to whom, is purely a private matter. Some folks donate through churches or social and civic groups, others give directly to the charity of their choice. The advantage in all these cases is that you've got time to do your homework and determine where your gift is going - and how much of it, if any, is spent on something other than what's intended.

But what about the solicitors you see on street corners and outside local merchants? Most of these folks are just fine. The local chapter of Disabled American Veterans just finished a drive and the Salvation Army will begin one soon.

There are others, though, whose credentials we've questioned. When asked where the funds they collect end up, they've become defensive and evasive. Not the kind of people we want to do business with.

"If you don't know the people who are soliciting or the organization they are soliciting for, do not make the donation," says Chief Buddy Williams of the LOPD.

Good advice.

By the same token, though, don't let a few bad apples sour you on helping those in real need - not just during the holidays, but all year long.

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