NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - The Middle Tennessee community has begun recovery efforts after 24 people were killed in violent storms and tornadoes and left thousands of people without power.
Nashville Mayor John Cooper has started compiling a list of vetted agencies to donate to and volunteer for in the aftermath. Those interested in helping can view the list here.
In an effort to provide access to as many resources as possible, this list includes information and organizations that Metro has been made aware but are not Metro sponsored. We are grateful to the many partners that have worked to make their resources and space available.
— Mayor John Cooper (@JohnCooper4Nash) March 3, 2020
Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett is also urging people to use caution when trying to help those affected.
"Tennesseans are generous and support each other in times of need, and I encourage everyone to be diligent when donating money to charitable organizations," Hargett said Thursday. "Unfortunately, there are scam artists who prey on our generosity after a disaster. Tennesseans should give wisely so that we maximize recovery efforts."
Any charity that raises over $50,000 a year must register with the Secretary of State's Division of Charitable Solicitations. To see if a charity is registered visit, sos.tn.gov/charitable.
Here are some other tips the state provided:
- If a nonprofit asks you for a contribution, check to see if it's registered online sos.tn.gov/charitable or by calling 615-741-2555.
- Take your time. Resist pressure to give on the spot.
- If an organization has a specific mission, ask how and who will benefit from your donation.
- If you are asked for a donation via text or email, verify the request is directly from the charity or nonprofit.
- Do your own research and don't assume a social media or blog recommendation has been approved by the nonprofit.
- If you give through an app or website, ask if it is going directly to the organization.
- Avoid giving cash. Always ask for a receipt and if your contribution is tax deductible.
- Pay close attention to the name of the nonprofit organization, as there are many with similar names.
- Don't forget there are many ways to give, such as volunteering your time.
- If a paid fundraiser asks you for a donation, ask how much is kept by the fundraiser and how much goes to the nonprofit.
Chattanooga-based Bellhops will be on the ground in Nashville to hand out supplies to those in need, the company announced Thursday. Bellhops is offering tarps/plastic coverings, trash bags, plywood sheets, flashlights, batteries and bottled water at the McGruder Family Resource Center in north Nashville.
Bellhops is also offering discounts on their moving services to any local resident that needs to relocate due to the storms. All services will be billed "at cost," providing residents with the lowest prices available. Residents can call 888-836-393 and use code NASHDR20 to receive the discount.