The Better Business Bureau says a door-to-door charity scam has been reported in Calgary in recent days and reported to police.
Airdrie Meals on Wheels is warning residents that anyone soliciting in its name is not affiliated with the organization.
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The BBB Serving Alberta and East Kootenay said individuals have been going door-to-door in several neighbourhoods asking for money on behalf of a local meal-delivery charity.
“We know this is a scam and it has been reported to the police service,” said Mary O’Sullivan-Andersen, President and CEO of BBB Serving Alberta and East Kootenay.
“Always be skeptical when someone who you aren’t expecting knocks on your door, especially when they are asking for money.”
“Staff or volunteers from reputable charities have identification and they are typically happy to leave information about the organization at the door to be considered at a later time,” O’Sullivan-Andersen said.
“Don’t feel pressured to give anyone money.”
She added that scammers may also pose as salespeople.
“The motivation is always the same: to steal your money,” O’Sullivan-Andersen said.
The BBB is advising residents to watch for charity name confusion, including groups using names similar to legitimate organizations.
It also warns against donating on the spot or responding to high-pressure tactics, and urges residents to verify charities independently through their websites and by confirming they have a registered charitable number through the Canada Revenue Agency.
The BBB said donors should also be cautious of vague program descriptions or appeals that provide little detail about how funds will be used.
Airdrie Meals on Wheels said it does not canvass door-to-door for donations.
“We do NOT canvass door-to-door for donations,” the organization said in a public notice.
The organization added that anyone going door-to-door asking for donations on its behalf “are not affiliated with us.”
Airdrie Meals on Wheels said those wishing to support the organization can do so through official channels, including online donations, community events and recognized fundraising initiatives, and noted that donation receipts are issued when requested.
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