OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS, P.O. BOX 1163, RICHMOND, VA 23218, www.vdacs.virginia.gov
FOR RELEASE: May 26, 2009
Contact: Marion Horsley, (804)225-3820
STATE WARNS PUBLIC ABOUT CHARITABLE SOLICITATION BY EMMANUEL OUTREACH TEMPLE
The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Office of Consumer Affairs (OCA) cautions the public that Emmanuel Outreach Temple, 963 Glen Cliff Street, La Habra, California, has solicited contributions from Virginia citizens for allegedly charitable purposes in the name of American Veterans Assistance Fund, Reserve Police Officers of America, and Children's Dream Network. OCA is also aware that the organization solicits using the name National Coalition of Disabled Firefighters.
However, as of May 26, 2009, this organization has not registered with or been granted the appropriate exempt status by the Commissioner as required by law. Therefore, citizens are cautioned that their contributions to such organization may be used for noncharitable purposes.
The Department recommends that before responding to any charitable appeal by making a donation or by making a purchase in the name of a charity, consumers verify that the organization is registered with the Office of Consumer Affairs. Current registration status for charitable organizations can be found on the Department’s website at www.vdacs.virginia.gov/consumers/index.shtml when you click on Charitable Search.
Consumers should also determine how much of their donation will be actually used to support the organization’s charitable purpose, and how much will be used for other expenses such as administrative overhead and fundraising. Call the Hotline toll free in Virginia at (800)552-9963 or in the Richmond area call (804)786-2042.
