Special to Wesson News
Mississippi’s Secretary of State, Michael Watson, is urging Mississippians to exercise caution when donating to a charity or fundraiser, as there has been an uptick in activity from fraudulent charities operating in Mississippi.
"We know Mississippians are some of the most generous and hospitable folks in the nation, but it is important to always check the validity of a charity prior to donating,” said Watson. “Unfortunately, bad actors continue to solicit in our state, especially in-person, so we encourage you to do your research and ask questions prior to donating your hard-earned dollars."
For example, on July 10, 2024, the Secretary of State's Office issued a Cease and Desist Order against Restoration Houston Ministry, a group based in Houston, Texas. This organization has repeatedly solicited in Mississippi, while failing to comply with state law or register with the state’s Charities Division as an official charity. The Restoration Houston Ministry has refused to communicate with the Secretary of State's Office entirely, despite its efforts to solicit in Mississippi over the last ten years.
Mississippians are encouraged to question the validity of organizations, such as the Restoration Houston Ministry, who solicit donations. Legitimate organizations should be willing to communicate and register with the Secretary of State's Office.
It is also important to note that a 501(c)(3) status does not determine the validity of a charity. Many Mississippians will donate to an organization with this status, believing the federal 501(c)(3) status signifies an official charity in compliance with Mississippi law. Registration through Mississippi’s Charities Division is required before any charity (in-state or out-of-state) can solicit to Mississippi residents and be considered legitimate.
The Secretary of State's Office encourages Mississippians to utilize the resources available on the Charities Division webpage at www.sos.ms.gov/charities to protect themselves and their hard-earned dollars.
For questions or more information, contact the Charities Division at 601-359-1599 or email Charities.CustomerService@sos.ms.gov.
Tips for avoiding fraudulent charities:
Before donating, verify an organization's validity through the Mississippi Charity Search portal (bit.ly/4cDie2y), or by calling the Charities Division at 601-359-1599.
When in doubt, ask!
Legitimate charities will welcome inquiries. Mississippians should never feel pressured to send a donation "immediately" without receiving more information first. If in person, ask to see a copy of the Certificate of Registration from the Secretary of State's Office.
Always get receipts for donations.
Be extra cautious about solicitations via phone calls, texts, emails or mail.
Help raise awareness about the growing threat of scammers in the state. Educate yourself to help protect those around you!