First it was Hurricane Harvey....then Irma....and in the end millions of people will desperately need help.
If you weren't directly affected, and would like to chip in, the good news is that many companies will let you double your donation.
How to extend your gift
The American Red Cross has become the go to charity for victims of both hurricanes. And it has partnered with a number of big corporations, who are promising to match your gift, giving it double the impact.
If you are in Walmart or Sam's Club in the coming days, look for signs at cash registers explaining how to donate and get their match, through Saturday September 16th.
You can do it in store, or at Walmart's website.
Also, many employers are doubling their workers donations.
Apple, Facebook, Google, Microsoft and AT&T are among those who have been doubling employee gifts (check with your employer).
Beware emails promising to double your donation
But from the doesn't that stink file, scammers claiming to double your donation.
The FBI is warning about email phishing scams claiming to be from the Red Cross, asking you to donate. But the Red Cross is not soliciting donations by email.
Many of these use a misspelled Red Cross email address, such as "Red Cros" with one "s." It can be hard to spot at first. They will then send you to a private Pay Pal account. If you fall for it, you might say "doesn't that stink?"
If you are not sure about a charity, especially one that calls or emails you, do not agree to help them out.
First look them up online at guidestar.org, give.org, or the Better Business Bureau, and check them out, so you don't waste your money.
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