The responder is right that that this sort of idea has been around for a while. I don't think we need to be so globally skeptical, though. I agree that from what's been said about the site mentioned in the first post, it does not appear truistable, and I too would steer clear of it. But, as a rule, such sites are generally legitimate and help raise funds for many schools and other types of organizations. You mentioned having experience with Schoolcash. That was a good site, but it is now being gobbled up by schoolpop, which pays out much lower donations to schools. If I'm going to try to help when I shop online, I want the highest donations I can get. That's why my group and I use www.HEARTof.com
-- it works great. If you find a site that donates more, please let me know!
Thanks for the reply ... interestingly, when I went back to the page via the address which I pasted into my original post, it was a completely different site. Which only adds to my suspicions. I wasn't particularly interested in signing up, and we do have experience with internet fundraising (e.g. schoolcash.com), but I hate to think that somebody out there is going to play a con on some unsuspecting fundraiser.
Contrary to what the site says this idea is not new.
You purchase going through their site and get a percentage for your school. They have an agreement with vendors to do this. Box tops has a like program, so do several other places.
As for your concern: I would say it's healthy to be wary whenever anyone asks for your credit card number over the internet.
Another thing to consider is that it can take up to 2 years for a scam to be found out and prosecuted. I would stick to progams older than that to be safe. I didn't see how long this company has been in business. I would ask the rep who gave your principal the cards for more background information on the company to be safe.
Has anyone heard of or had experience with the internet company Charity For You? I recieved an info sheet from our principal regarding it, went online and it just didn't seem "right". Before I go to the trouble of investigating it as a possible scam, I thought I'd ask if any of you knows about it. The online address I visited is This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Thanks.