It's the season for giving, but in these uncertain economic times, how do you choose which charities to donate to?
There are more than 84,000 registered charities across Canada.
Bradley Alvarez of the Canada Revenue Agency suggests that Canadians check the agency's website before giving.
The website can tell you how much money a charity took in, how much it contributed to the community, and how much it paid its employees.
The agency also lists organizations that have been de-registered as charities for various reasons.
Alvarez warns that people should be aware of fraudulent organizations that promise leveraged donations - for example, you donate $20 and they give you a receipt for $100.
The amount you donate is the amount that should appear on your tax receipt, he said.
And if you're short on cash, you can always donate your time.
"We're so grateful for that kind of assistance as well, because that takes time, that takes commitment, and that takes motivation and passion to make a difference," said Irene Jackson of the Lookout Aid Emergency Society.
Charities working with the homeless also appreciate donations of blankets, socks, underwear and personal hygiene items like toothbrushes, toothpaste and deodorant.
For a list of organizations offering food and shelter in Vancouver, click here.
To go to the Canada Revenue Agency website, click here.
With a report from CTV British Columbia's Chris Olsen
