A powerful earthquake in Haiti has prompted international leaders and aid organizations to urge the public to donate in the relief effort. Right now, you may feel compelled to help the families of thousands of victims there by making a donation.

While the Charities program within the Secretary of State’s Office wants you to be generous, it also urges you to not let emotions cloud good judgment when it comes to donating your money.  Often, scammers use tragedies like these to say they are helping a cause and to pocket the donations of generous people. Don’t be fooled!

There are tons of reputable, great charities and groups that you can donate to that will use your dollars to make a difference. Make sure the group is registered with the Office of Secretary of State by checking online. Ask how much of your donation will go to the charitable cause. And don’t deal with folks who won’t give you straight answers or are high pressure.

“We want your money to be doing the most good it possibly can to help victims in Haiti – so do your homework and check before you give,” said Secretary Reed.