Give locally to avoid charity scams

I frequently see stories about charity scammers. We have a terrific solution right here: Give locally. There are wonderful institutions here in Chattanooga that need our support. Siskin Children’s Institute, Northside Neighborhood House, Children’s Home/ Chambliss Shelter, nonprofit schools like Girls Leadership Academy and public Hamilton County Schools, and even private schools meeting the needs of children in our neighborhoods by volunteering in communities.

We can donate to our police and fire departments. How about our nonprofit hospitals such as Siskin and Memorial?

We may not get the address labels, free T-shirt or tote bag, but we can see first-hand our donations at work here where we live.

My 90-year-old mother has done it for 20-plus years. She uses her walker to get to the front desk of worthy local institutions, hands them her check saying, “I believe in you and the work you are doing.”

She knows, great or small, the amount is benefiting the needs of people where she lives, plus it creates joy in that moment.