Rick Patrick
ECB Publishing, Inc.
It is something that is going on nationwide, and there have been reports of it happening as near as Madison County. A group of three to six individuals holds posters and a collection cup or bucket, usually in high-traffic areas or shopping centers. On the poster is the image of a baby, seemingly on a hospital bed, with what appears to be tubes coming out of its nose. The poster implores people to donate to help “Sofia,” who is in need of surgery for a “heart malfunction.” The problem is, unless one of these solicitors is named Sofia, that would be the only way “Sofia” would benefit from an unsuspecting person's generosity.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office recently made a social media post warning people that this is a scam and any money donated simply goes into the pockets of the scammers. Although this is clearly unethical and could even be considered cruel, it does not violate Florida State Statutes. The best course of action, if you see these individuals, is to just drive on by and not stop.
During the upcoming holiday season, many people feel the need or desire to donate to a worthy cause and help others. While this is certainly a noble thing to do, one should use a great deal of caution in order to ensure that your generosity does not simply enrich unscrupulous bad actors who would take advantage of others. If you want to do a good deed and donate to a worthy cause, consider making an extra donation to your church or to an established, well-respected charity such as Samaritan's Purse, the Rotary Foundation or St. Jude's Children's Hospital. That way you will know you are helping others who are truly worthy of your generosity.