Houston Nonprofit's $10,000 Nursing Scholarship Check Stolen and Altered

Suspected Check Fraud Incident

• 💡 A Houston nonprofit, the Good Samaritan Foundation of Texas, has fallen victim to suspected fraud involving a $10,000 check intended for nursing scholarships.
• 🎯 The check, meant for local nursing students, was intercepted, altered, and deposited into an account in Massachusetts.
• 🔍 The payee name and address on the check were changed, indicating a sophisticated alteration after it was dropped off for processing.

Impact and Nonprofit's Response

• 📌 Despite the theft, the Good Samaritan Foundation of Texas has assured that the nursing scholarships will still be funded.
• 💬 Executive director Emma Cullum is working with her bank and has filed reports with the Houston Police Department and the US Postal Inspection Service.

Prevention and Safety Tips

• ⚠️ This incident highlights the risks of mail theft and check fraud, even when checks are placed inside post office mail slots.
• ✉️ Recommended safety measures include using certified mail for required signatures and exploring alternatives like electronic payments to avoid mailing paper checks.
• 🏦 Contacting your bank immediately if you notice any suspicious activity on your accounts is crucial.