Donations for the fire damage in Los Angeles

[caliexperience]

Jurisdiction

California

We own an apartment in Southern California and are traveling. Thankfully we are not too close to the area of impact, which keeps growing and we are very concerned for so many people we know, especially friends who are senior citizens who are right now dealing with what is going on. I don't know details about what insurance coverage they have. I am always skeptical about insurance coverage and now I am guessing the insurance company will be especially vigilant in distribution of funds because of the magnitude of the claims. But I keep seeing commercials and ads for donations. Does anyone know how that gets distributed? Are there any regulations on how this works? Thank you for any info you can provide.

 

[adjusterjack]

But I keep seeing commercials and ads for donations.

Impossible to comment on commercials and ads for donations without seeing the commercials and ads for donations.

Post some links if you can.

 

[Michael Wechsler]

I have seen an endless series of advertisements for the American Red Cross on the NFL football games yesterday and today, appealing to the general public to send donations. I remember when 9/11 happened and a flood of donations went to the many non-profit organizations (including the American Red Cross) - many millions of dollars collected that had unintended consequences which were ugly and difficult to watch. Major disasters attract fraudsters to capitalize on the beneficence of others and one must be wary and careful before sending money anywhere (and generally speaking.)

First and foremost - research whichever organization it is to whom you intend to donate. You might be very surprised to find out how much - or now little - actually gets distributed to the intended beneficiaries. Who decides who receives what donations? You're putting your faith in those people who received your money and they may prioritize some over others.

One of the harshest criticisms of a number of non-profits is that very little of the actual donations are distributed to the victims and that much of the money is consumed by 'administrative expenses' which is a way of saying that those running the organization find ways to compensate themselves.

Charity Watch, a watchdog, gives them an A- rating regarding its activities. You may want to look up the organization you're considering donating to there and at other reputable places.

American Red Cross

www.charitywatch.org