I'm sure by now everyone has heard about the unthinkable shooting in Newtown, CT. I haven't mentioned it up till now because it's been talked about all over the place and what can you really say... There are no words that will really express the profound sadness as a parent about such a tragedy which was simply allowed to happen.
But on to my question for you...it seems there are places to "donate" all over the net now. I have received 3 requests so far (through my Etsy store) to donate goods so people can make items to sell ~ the proceeds of these sales to go to the fund for the families.
I don't know any of these people who have sent the requests, they are basically strangers crawling out of the woodwork.
What would you do?
Personally, I am thinkin that if you want to donate to a cause you should go directly to that cause, not purchase something from someone who says they will donate it to the cause. But maybe I'm being a bit too cynical...
What are your opinions?
I'm always cautious when it comes to donating. Here's a good cause that I believe crafters can get behind: http://www.damasklove.com/drawn-together-a-fundraiser-for-newtown-connecticut/
ReplyDeleteI think you are spot on...I would not donate anything to anyone if I did not know for certain that they were legitimate. Honest people expect to be questioned. Dishonest people hope you'll play the fool.
ReplyDeleteAnother thing....I like to help those in my own community. You might do something for the children in your local area who are hurting in honor and memory of the little children suffering in Newtown. Charity begins at home, and that means your neighborhood or hometown.
I agree with you Roni.
ReplyDeleteSandra
It's times like these when scammers crawl out of the woodwork. I would just ignore them especially since you don't know them.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you 100%. I would donate in a manner that makes you comfortable. Sadly, a lot of people try to scam others during times like this.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you and everyone else. Only go to donate with someone you trust and feel comfortable with.
ReplyDeleteYeah - they are probably scammers !!! I would do something for the kids in my own area like Dinahsoar said xxx
ReplyDeleteNo, I wouldn't donate to anyone I didn't know, unless it was a legitimate and well known charitable group. I know of some blogs and websites that have asked crafters to make a card etc, to send to families in Newtown, and send the card directly to Newtown. That is something I would do (and am doing), but otherwise, those requests are too vague in my opinion. Just my thoughts on it.
ReplyDeleteI think it's too early to know what is needed and by whom. The children in Newtown who need the most help (and what help they need, I don't know), will need that help for a long time to come. Pray for guidance in helping, as you pray for the victims and their families.
ReplyDeleteMy feelings are that what the residents of Newtown need the most doesn't cost any money, as for the expenses that will be incurred by the funerals of those that were horribly killed, there are programs already in place to assist with that. I don't think that I would be contributig to any unknown person or organization that just pops up asking for donations
ReplyDeleteIt is sad to know that something like this can even happen, then it's compounded by people who are trying to cheat people out of their money. This world keeps going downhill faster and faster. Like others said before, only use persons or organizations you know.
ReplyDeleteHey Roni,
ReplyDeleteI'm going to comment -- then read the other comments above so I don't get swayed.
I think you shouldn't donate your stuff to others so they can make something to donate --- if they want to make something they should buy the supplies then donate.
That's my two cents..... let us know what you decide to do.
Hugs,
Kay
My Dear Friend,
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with you and the need to be cautious. Unfortunately, during times of crisis, the leeches of this world, will come out of the woodwork and then prey upon the vulnerable or the loving and giving hearts of people like yourself. I have two thoughts about reliable resources for providing assistance to these devastated families: first, perhaps the city council of Newtown has set up an account as a fund for contributions that can be divided among the families or have the money go specifically to help cover funeral costs. My second thought would be to contact the pastor of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church. It appears that the majority of the funerals have taken place at this parish setting. If the parish started a fund for the families, under the guidelines of an Archdiocese church, the mondy would have to go directly into a restricted account. Parishes, in order to maintain their 501C status as a nonprofit, must adhere to very restrictive handling of this type of donation. I also suggested this parish because in the majority of the news coverage that I have seen, the pastor appears to be actively involved within the community and if the church is not supporting a collection, I would imagine that he might know which of the families who are in the position needing financial support.
My heart and prayers remain with the entire community as they continue to hold close to one another in an attempt to find comfort and healing.
Much love to you Roni for your example of love in action,
Kathy Jones
There is a way to send something without sending money.. There is a snowflake making thing folks can send to them ...http://bangordailynews.com/2012/12/19/news/state/mainers-making-paper-snowflakes-for-connecticut-school/
ReplyDelete