Donating used items like clothing or furniture is thoughtful but can be a financial and logistical challenge for communities. The the time and cost of accepting, sorting, storing and dispersing items, including throwing away unusable items, often exceeds the benefit. The best way to support people affected by the current flood and severe weather situation is through a financial donation.

• Canadian Red Cross
• United Way
• Food Banks BC
• Salvation Army

You can also connect with recognized and registered charities in your community for ways to support local efforts.

Financial donations are best because cash is:

• portable, timely, and cost-efficient
• flexible
• supports local economies
• does not require shipping and transportation costs
• decreases environmental impact
• may be matched by other organizations, making your donation go further

If you can’t donate cash, consider holding a garage sale for your used items and contributing the proceeds.

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How to donate carefully

Only donate to reputable, well-established charities. DO NOT give to door-to-door or over the phone campaigns.

• Avoid giving cash or using wire transfer services. Cheques should be made out to an organization, not an individual
• Donations made online should only be done on secure websites
• When asked for donations (over the phone, through an email or in person), ask the canvasser for identification or printed information about the charity
• Beware of high-pressure tactics. A legitimate charity will still be there tomorrow. Feel free to take the information and sleep on it
• Do an internet search for the charity’s name and background
• If you have concerns about the activities of a charitable organization, including its fundraising practices, call the Canada Revenue Agency at 1 877 442-2899

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Volunteering

If you are interested in volunteering, check with your First Nation, local government or community organizations to see if there is a need.