UPDATED: Town Veterans Agent Warns of Solicitations by Unknown Group

Town Veterans Agent Jim Schultz said police have received phone calls regarding solicitations by a group claiming to be the "Swampscott Veterans Association."

He urges people to be wary of unknown veterans organizations seeking donations.

"I do not know this organization nor are they tied in any way to the veteran organizations located here is Swampscott," he said "It appears that this unscrupulous, uninvited organization is taking advantage of residents' goodwill during the holiday season."

Patch received an email from one of the people who received a solicitation in town.

The solicitor insisted that the smallest donation the group would accept was $20 by check.

This refusal of a small donation signalled to the Swampscott resident that the operation was probably illegitimate and likely a scam.

The veterans agent, who is also a Swampscott police detective, goes on to say that there are people who seek donations from the public on behalf of veterans but very little of what they collect actually goes toward helping veterans in need.

The individuals only give the minimal amount necessary (usually about 5-7 percent) to veterans programs to avoid legal action, he said.  The remaining 93-95 percent of funds raised go towards their "overhead," he said.

"I would like to remind people again, that f they want to donate to a veterans program, your donation should be made locally," he said. "Either through the Veterans Agent, the VFW, American Legion or Marine Corps League, and never tape a check or any donation to your door."

Donations should be mailed to a recognized address or done face to face, he said.

Any questions regarding these solicitors may be made to the Veterans Service Officer (781) 596-8853 or the Swampscott Police (781) 595-1111.