FREDERICTON — The president of a Royal Canadian Legion branch in Fredericton says she's sickened by “opportunists” who are trying to scam Good Samaritans out of cash in the wake of flooding in the region.
Ardith Armstrong says she's received a number of calls from people who've been solicited over the phone for cash to help repair the water-damaged legion.
While the downtown facility suffered upwards of $100,000 damage in this month's flood, Ms. Armstrong says a fundraising campaign has not yet started.
Cpl. Mike Berry of the Fredericton Police says police are looking into the matter, and it's unclear whether anyone who was contacted actually donated money.
He says it's not uncommon for scam artists to prey on people following emergencies, and people should always check with the organization involved before giving money.
When the legion is prepared to collect money, Ms. Armstrong says notices will be published in the local newspaper and members will be invited to donate, but no one will be directly solicited.
Ms. Armstrong said Sunday that she's confident the legion will raise the necessary funds, but she's still hurt that fraudsters have been trying to take advantage of people.
“The citizens of Fredericton are really generous,” Ms. Armstrong said Sunday.
“To have somebody seize the moment to make a fast buck is really disappointing.”
