The earthquake last week in Haiti was and continues to be horrific.  In the aftermath, some unsavory characters are thwarting the best efforts of people who want to donate money to support the rescue and rebuilding efforts.

The Better Business Bureau recommends checking to make sure your contribution goes to a legitimate organization.  They have posted a list of the Charities Providing Haiti Earthquake Relief. Click on the link to view.

The Better Business Bureau also provided the following tips:

• Rely on expert opinion when it comes to evaluating a charity.

• Be wary of claims that 100 percent of donations will assist relief victims.

• Be cautious when giving online.

• Find out if the charity has an on-the-ground presence in the impacted areas.

• Find out if the charity is providing direct aid or raising money for other groups.

• Gifts of clothing, food or other in-kind donations are not yet needed.  Cash is needed most to buy water, food and medical supplies.
  

You can go to a link on the Bettter Business Bureau site to research charities and relief organizations to verify that they are accredited by the BBB and meet the 20 Standards for Charity Accountability.

Give wisely.