Red Cross emphasizes importance of verified donations after Hurricane Helene – InForum

FARGO – In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the American Red Cross is committed to making sure your financial donations go to the right places.

Scams that appear to be helping people in need often occur after natural disasters, officials said. However, they say you need to find an organization you know and trust to best help those affected by the disaster.

Red Cross leaders say the money donated directly to Hurricane Helene relief will go to the 80 shelters they have set up to provide beds, food and water for the nearly 2,600 displaced people.

“It's really important that people do their due diligence to research the organizations they want to support, whether that means going directly to their website. Of course, there will be a flood of information and misinformation on social media, so going directly to the organization's website (is the best course),” said Abbie Peterson, the American Red Cross' development director.

The American Red Cross also points out the need for volunteers and blood donations.

You can donate to them online HERE.