Several social media posts have questioned if canvassers knocking on doors in the Sault on behalf of the Red Cross are legit.
SooToday reached out to the Red Cross to confirm if these individuals are scammers.
“I can confirm that the Red Cross is canvassing in Sault St. Marie,” said Shelly Makrugin, senior advisor of media relations at the Canadian Red Cross.
“The Canadian Red Cross has posted information about door-to-door canvassers on Facebook.
"Red Cross fundraises year-round in communities across Canada. Face-to-face fundraising allows us to have meaningful interactions with people, discussing the importance of our work in Canada and around the world," she said.
Makrugin also included the following additional information to know for sure.
Canvassers will:
- Wear prominently displayed name tags.
- Wear vests, coats, or shirts branded with the Canadian Red Cross logo.
- Possess in-depth knowledge of the Canadian Red Cross.
- Carry materials to educate about the mission and programs offered by Red Cross.
- Offer the option to set up automated monthly donations using your credit card or direct debit information.
- Not accept cash donations.
- Utilize electronic tablets for collecting information, in some areas.
Most canvassers use electronic tablets but if those tablets lose connectivity or run out of battery then they use paper forms as back-up, Makrugin said.
People are encouraged to call the Red Cross at 1-800-418-1111 if they have concerns or questions, or email [email protected].