Manhattan FPD does not ask for donations by phone
The Southtown Star recently published a report warning residents about a fraudulent fundraising campaign impersonating the Manhattan Fire Protection District (FPD). According to the article, an individual posing as a fundraiser called Captain Gerald Kinsella of the Manhattan FPD, attempting to solicit donations under the guise of supporting local firefighters. Fortunately, Kinsella recognized the scam and decided to investigate further.
The caller, who introduced herself as “Cindy,†asked for donations in different denominations—$100, $50, or $35—and claimed they were tax-deductible. She insisted on receiving a specific amount before sending any materials, which raised red flags for Kinsella. In an email to Chief Dan Forsythe, he explained that she wanted a donation amount to issue a receipt, citing legal requirements. However, this was clearly a tactic to pressure him into giving money without proper verification.
Kinsella noted that the fire district does not conduct phone solicitations for donations. Instead, they send out an annual fundraising letter by mail, which includes tickets for a summer event scheduled for July 19. Residents are encouraged to mail checks directly to the fire station. No one from the department ever calls individuals to ask for contributions.
Dawn Cupples, the fire district’s public education coordinator, emphasized that the organization has no connection to the call. She warned residents to be cautious and reminded them that the Manhattan Firefighters Association does not solicit funds over the phone. “We want people to know the difference between us and these scammers using our name,†she said.
The woman claiming to be Cindy stated she was working with a Joliet-based fundraising group. However, the vice president of that organization confirmed to the Southtown Star that their work is limited to churches and schools, and they do not engage in phone solicitation for firefighter charities.
Cupples urged residents to avoid donating to anyone calling on behalf of the Manhattan Firefighters Association. She encouraged people to reach out directly to the fire department if they have questions or need more information. This incident serves as a reminder to stay alert and verify the legitimacy of any fundraising request, especially when it involves personal information or financial details.
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