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Secretary of State Urges Smart Giving in the Wake of Hurricane Helene (Page 77)

South Carolina Secretary of State Mark Hammond is urging residents to be cautious and informed when donating to charities assisting those impacted by Hurricane Helene. As the Southeast begins the recovery and rebuilding process, Hammond advises donors to ensure their contributions are going to legitimate organizations that will effectively help those in need.

Hammond offers the following tips for safe and smart giving:

  1. Do Your Research: Before donating, verify that the charity is registered to solicit in South Carolina. The SC Solicitation of Charitable Funds Act requires charities to be registered with the Secretary of State’s Office and file financial reports. Residents can use the free Give Smart SC app or visit sos.sc.gov to check the status of a charity and review its financial information.

  2. Donate to Established Charities: Consider contributing to organizations with a proven track record of providing disaster relief. Choose charities with strong transparency, accountability, and the necessary resources to deliver aid effectively.

  3. Don’t Rush: Legitimate organizations will not pressure you for immediate donations. Donors should feel comfortable asking questions about how their money will be used. Professional solicitors are required to disclose whether they are being paid to ask for donations, and donors should inquire about fees charged by crowdfunding platforms.

  4. Stay Safe from Scammers: Be cautious about giving out personal information, such as your Social Security number, in response to charitable requests. Only donate using secure, reputable methods, preferably via credit card. More information on protecting your identity is available at the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs website, consumer.sc.gov.

  5. Report Concerns: If you suspect fraudulent activity or have concerns about a charity or fundraiser, you can file a complaint through the Give Smart SC app or the Secretary of State’s website.

Hammond acknowledged the challenges ahead for the Southeast but expressed confidence in the generosity of South Carolinians. “Please remember to give from the heart, but be sure to give smart,” Hammond advised.

Secretary of State Urges Smart Giving in the Wake of Hurricane Helene

2024-10-02
On: October 2, 2024
In: Community News

South Carolina Secretary of State Mark Hammond is urging residents to be cautious and informed when donating to charities assisting those impacted by Hurricane Helene.Continue Reading

Mt. Hebron UMC to Host 52nd Annual BBQ Fundraiser This Saturday

2024-10-02
On: October 2, 2024
In: Events

The Mt. Hebron United Methodist Church’s United Methodist Men (UMM) will host their 52nd annual BBQ fundraiser this Saturday, October 5, starting at 8 a.m.Continue Reading

Dominion Energy Plans to Restore Power to 95% of Customers in Richland and Lexington by Thursday

2024-09-30
On: September 30, 2024
In: Community News

Dominion Energy is making steady progress in restoring power across South Carolina in the wake of Hurricane Helene, with 95% of customers in Richland andContinue Reading

Hurricane Helene’s Destructive Impact Continues Across the American South

2024-09-30
On: September 30, 2024
In: Community News

The destruction caused by Hurricane Helene showed no signs of slowing this weekend as its path of devastation spread across the American South. After slammingContinue Reading

Strong Turnout for Midlands Striper Club Ladies Tournament on Lake Murray

2024-09-30
On: September 30, 2024
In: Sports

By Thomas Grant Jr. The 2024 Midlands Striper Club Ladies Tournament, held on September 14 at Lake Murray, saw another impressive turnout. A total ofContinue Reading

Schedules put in flux by Hurricane Helene

2024-09-30
On: September 30, 2024
In: Community News

By Thomas Grant Jr. Hurricane Helene did not just wreak havoc on the homes, schools, businesses and properties of the Palmetto State. It resulted inContinue Reading

Michael Menhart named new Blowfish head coach

2024-09-30
On: September 30, 2024
In: Sports

By Thomas Grant Jr. There will be a new but familiar face as Lexington County Blowfish head coach next summer. The club announced on Sept.Continue Reading

High River Levels Persist Following Hurricane Helene, But Major Bridges to Remain Open

2024-09-30
On: September 30, 2024
In: Community News

Despite elevated river levels in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has confirmed that all major bridges in theContinue Reading

Area Agency on Aging Opens New Location in Columbia

2024-09-29
On: September 29, 2024
In: Community News, Health, Senior News

The Central Midlands Council of Governments (CMCOG) Area Agency on Aging celebrated the opening of its new location with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on September 13.Continue Reading

Lexington County Crews Work to Clear Roads After Hurricane Helene

2024-09-29
On: September 29, 2024
In: Community News

The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department and Public Works crews are continuing their efforts to clear road obstructions following the impact of Hurricane Helene. As ofContinue Reading

Hattie’s View: Test your memory

2024-09-29
On: September 29, 2024
In: Hattie's View

I was told if I could remember one short Bible verse, my life would never be the same. 1 Corinthians 13:11 JKV: When I wasContinue Reading

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