Over a year ago, BBB Wise Giving Alliance distributed a donor advisory about Syrian refugee assistance.  It is with deep sadness that a year later, the crisis for Syrian refugees continues to escalate, particularly in the aftermath of the destruction of Aleppo.  

Season of giving brings people seeking to take advantage

Amnesty International reports that over the course of  five years of warfare, over 4.8 million Syrians have fled to five countries (Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq and Egypt) and that the UN estimates another 13.5 million are currently in need within Syria itself. During this season of giving, many generous American donors will respond to help Syrians in need.

BBB advise contributors to keep the following tips in mind to help identify trustworthy relief efforts and to help avoid those seeking to take advantage of public sympathy about a tragic and devastating situation:

1. Find Out What the Charity Does.
2. Find out if the charity has an on-the-ground presence in the impacted areas.
3. Be wary of claims that 100 percent of donations will assist relief victims.
4. Determine if the charity is providing direct aid or raising money for other groups.

Read more at BBB Wise Giving Wednesday.

This article is summarized by Canadian Fraud News Inc.