2008 PRESS RELEASES

March 12, 2008
STATE WARNS PUBLIC ABOUT CHARITABLE SOLICITATION BY HEAVEN SENT FOUNDATION, INC.
Contact: Marion Horsley, 804.225.3820

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Office of Consumer Affairs cautions consumers that Heaven Sent Foundation, Inc., based in Norfolk, Virginia, has solicited contributions from Virginia citizens for allegedly charitable purposes.  Michael Briggs, the organization’s director, has solicited citizens and business owners in the Norfolk area for donations of money, property, office equipment, food and clothing, allegedly to help the homeless. 

However, as of March 12, 2008, this organization has not registered with or been granted the appropriate exempt status by the Commissioner as required by law.  Therefore, contributors are cautioned that their contributions to such organization may be used for non-charitable 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.  Click here to find current registration status for charitable organizations.

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.
 
For additional information, call the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Office of Consumer Affairs, toll-free in Virginia at 800.552.9963 or in the Richmond area call 804.786.2042.