Don't be a victim of a holiday charity scam

It's the traditional season of giving in the Christian world, but like any good thing, there is always someone ready to take advantage by dishonest means.

With television shows and church services tugging at our heart strings, it's sometimes tempting to fork over our hard-earned cash to the first person or organization to give us a good story.

Make sure you check out that story first. If you have any questions, here are some warning signs:

* Won't take a check. Legitimate charities don't insist on cash or a wire transfer.

* Can't be reached by phone. You should be able to call for information about how much of your donation will be used for administrative expenses and executive salaries.

* Solicit donations via email. Need we say more?

* Call on your phone. If you get a call from somebody asking for money, hang up the phone, or at least ask for a call-back number.

* Thank you for a pledge you don't remember making. Scammers often start with a "thank you" for your pledge, membership or other donation you didn't make.

Give locally, such as the McCook Humane Society, McCook Pantry, your church or other local charity that will use your donation directly.

A holiday favorite is the Salvation Army, which will have local "bell ringers" on duty Dec. 10-23, Sunday 1-6, Monday-Thursday 10-6, Friday and Saturday 10-9. More than 90 percent of donations help those in need in our community. Call (308) 350-0904 to volunteer.