Because charitable organizations are exempt from the “do not call” telemarking regulations, they’re burning up the phone lines this year soliciting donations for various causes. In many cases, the calls are legitimate and serve as an effective way for charities to raise much-needed funds. Because money is involved, however, con artists are out there too — dialing for dollars to line their own pockets.
One particularly despicable scam involves soliciting funds to help the families of the four murdered Lakewood police officers. The calls come from legitimate-sounding entities soliciting money for the nine children of the slain cops. It’s tough to turn away a plea for such a worthy cause. But saying no is exactly what you should do if someone calls asking for money on behalf of the families. Legitimate charities aren’t using telephone solicitations for this cause. The low-life on the other end of the line is trying to steal your money.
The folks at the Better Business Bureau have issued a warning on the latest con aimed at capitalizing on this enormous tragedy. They’re reminding everyone that donations made over the phone don’t always reach the intended recipient and consumers should be ever alert to bogus charity telemarketing scams.
If you want to help the families of the slain officers, numerous opportunities and avenues exist. Along with accounts at Bank of America and Columbia Bank, donations are being accepted at Lowe’s stores and through the Lakewood Independent Police Guild.
In addition, several businesses have stepped up to raise funds for the families.
Earlier this week, Papa John’s Pizza donated 100 percent of its profits for two days at 40 Western Washington locations to the Lakewood officers’ families. The response was heartwarming as long lines and lengthy wait times were met only with smiles, extraordinary patience and good cheer.
The owners of The Original Roadhouse Grill on Evergreen Way in Everett have pledged all of the restaurant’s sales on Saturday, from 10:30 a.m. to closing, to the families of the slain officers. We suspect the delay for a table might be a long one, but it will be well worth the wait.
Making a legitimate donation may not be as easy as answering the phone and giving out a credit card number, but it’s much more likely to bring the result you’re hoping for: a donation that actually helps these families.
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