CLAY COUNTY – You may have noticed the large blinking sign at County Road 220 in front of Walmart that warns motorists to “Give Wisely.” It’s pretty hard to miss. Normally for real-time traffic safety and guidance information about planned and unplanned events, the sign stands as a reminder that the Holiday season is upon us. Although we might be feeling charitable this season, local leaders remind everyone they should give wisely.

“You work hard for your money, and you have a big heart for others who may be struggling – especially during this holiday season. However, you would not drive down the highway throwing your hard-earned money out of the window,” said Sheriff Michelle Cook.

County officials, including the sheriff’s office, county commission, county manager, Green Cove Springs and Orange Park police departments, want to remind residents to use the same vigilance when making a charitable donation.

“Giving wisely to reputable charities in Clay County can impact more than just one person,” Cook said.

A recent interpretation of existing law has resulted in widespread panhandling in major intersections. While some of these groups may use the money as you intended, it is nearly impossible to verify an organization while waiting for a red light to change to green, CCSO wrote on its social media pages. The agency said to watch out for charities with names that sound similar to well-known, reputable organizations. Sometimes these sound-alike names are simply intended to confuse donors.

Panhandlers like to work busy intersections or in parking lots of big stores. They generally have predictable stories: disabled veteran, homeless or a sick child or spouse. Some will play instruments (music actually is coming from a CD player) to solicit sympathy – and your dollars. Other groups walk between lanes of traffic with buckets asking for donations without a clear explanation of their missions.

Cook warns that desperate pleas don’t always happen in your car. They can come in the form of cellphone calls or emails.

Therefore, she said to avoid clicking on links to charities on unfamiliar websites or in texts or emails. Don’t give them personal financial information or click on something from an unknown source, as it might download harmful malware onto your computer.

There is no need to give on the spot. If you are solicited for a donation at your home, workplace, by phone, or while in your car, CCSO asks you to give wisely. If you are solicited or if you feel pressured or uncomfortable, just say, “no, thank you” or you can point individuals to resources in the community that can properly help them.

Do not pay in cash. If you want to help, you can give care packages with much-needed items such as socks – this is the No. 1 most asked-for item – gloves, water bottles, bandages, wet wipes, toothbrush, toothpaste, sunscreen and nonperishable food. You can also include gift cards to local grocery stores.

“We know that our residents care about our community and want to help out their neighbors in need when they can,” said County Commissioner Chairwoman Betsy Condon. “Your compassion and generosity are just one of the many reasons why Clay County is such a wonderful place to live. There are a number of organizations in Clay County that work hard to help as many people as possible, and our staff can help point you in the right direction.”

To find a list of all nonprofits in the area, visit “Contact information for Clay County non-profit organizations” on the Clay Today website. If you are looking to donate to a homeless shelter in Clay County, you can do so by visiting the Vineyard Transitional Center’s website or contacting Father John Sanders at (904) 305-4641 or emailing him at thevineyard@claycountyhomelessshelter.com. The Vineyard serves as a haven for individuals who seek to rebuild their lives through the provision of essential programs which foster self-sufficiency.

Mercy Support Services, Quigley House, The Way Medical Clinic, J.P. Hall Children’s Charities, American Red Cross, Salvation Army of Clay County, food pantries in Green Cove Springs, Keystone Heights, Orange Park and Middleburg, BASCA, AMIkids Clay County, Special Olympics, Concert on the Green, Clamour Theatre Company, Clay Behavioral Health Center, Clay County 4-H, Habitat for Humanity, Pace Center for Girls, Mission of the Dirt Road, Lake Area Ministries, Waste Not Want Not and Kids First Florida are just a few outstanding organizations that will turn your dollars into results.

Officials said, by all means, please continue to give to meaningful charities that are doing great work in the community and throughout the world. But don’t throw your money out the window. There are more meaningful ways to donate.