Supporting Maui in its Time of Need: How to Donate Safely

August 29, 2023

By Jamie Schloegel, Chief Executive Officer

Disaster philanthropy brings out the best…and worst in humanity

In the aftermath of the heart-wrenching wildfires that tore through Lahaina, we’ve witnessed the outpouring of love, support, and a global yearning to help. The bustling town of Lahaina, a jewel on the shores of Maui and home to 12,000 people, has been hit hard by this natural disaster. As we grieve for the 115 lives lost, we also hold hope for the 388 people still missing and the many more affected.

During such dire times, it’s uplifting to see the global community come together, demonstrating a profound sense of unity and compassion. But as history has shown us, moments like these, which should bring out the best in humanity, sometimes also attract those with malicious intentions.

Tragically, alongside the rise in the will to give, there is a parallel rise in fraudulent donation sites and scams looking to exploit the goodwill of people around the world. So, how can you donate safely to ensure your generosity truly reaches those in need in Hawaii?

How to identify legitimate giving platforms to donate safely

Here are some ways to discern genuine platforms from fraudsters so you can donate safely:

Research the organization: Before you donate, take a moment to research the organization. Websites like Charity Navigator, GuideStar, and the Better Business Bureau can provide insights into the legitimacy of charitable organizations. Genuine entities like the Center for Disaster Philanthropy will have a track record of assisting during calamities.

Avoid suspicious links: If you come across a solicitation for donations via email or social media, don’t click on any direct links. Instead, visit the organization’s official website by typing the URL directly into your browser.

Check for transparent practices: Genuine organizations will provide clear details on how the funds will be used. The CDP, for instance, has a clear mission and vision about disaster response and recovery.

Look for official endorsements: Trusted community bodies, local governments, or known charitable organizations often endorse legitimate platforms. Seek out these endorsements to donate safely.

Beware of emotional appeals: While genuine organizations provide stories to convey the gravity of the situation, be cautious of those that rely solely on emotional appeal without offering substantive details about their relief efforts.

Secure transactions: Before you donate, ensure that the website is secure. The URL should start with ‘https://’ and a lock icon should be next to it.

Ensure Your Generosity Counts

Our collective strength lies in our unity and in our shared desire to alleviate suffering. By being vigilant and donating on safe platforms, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of the residents of Lahaina, helping them rebuild their beloved town.

To everyone willing to extend a helping hand, we at the La Crosse Community Foundation thank you. Together, with sincerity and caution, we can aid in the healing of Maui.