Better Business Bureau Provides Helpful Tips When Giving To Holiday Charities

ST. CLOUD --The holiday season is one of the biggest fundraising times for many charities. So, the Better Business Bureau is reminding you to use caution when donating this holiday season by offering you a few DOs and DON'Ts.

Some DON'Ts include: succumbing to high-pressure and emotional pitches. Never assume worn out, unwanted or unusable goods are acceptable - because it costs the charities millions or dollars each year to dispose of them. Also charities with impressive financial ratios could have other significant problems.

The BBB does suggest that you DO: check out the charity carefully, and be sure it's the right charity, as there are many phony organzations with similar sounding names.

Also, when donating online, make sure your donations are secure by looking for the "lock" symbol in the lower right corner before making the donation.