The Canada Revenue Agency is warning generous Canadians looking to donate to the Haiti earthquake relief efforts to watch out for fake charities.

Phillippe Brideau, a spokesperson for the Canada Revenue Agency, said the scam artists are already out as people rush to help support the efforts to rebuild Haiti after its devastating earthquake last week.

Brideau said it's important to "learn and confirm" the organization that is requesting funds and to never give money under pressure.

"It's OK for Canadian to refuse to donate if there is inappropriate pressure to give immediate or if they are asked to sign forms right away," Brideau said.

If people have any doubts about the authenticity of an organization seeking donations, Brideau said they can check the Canada Revenue Agency website.

"Ask that the organization to wait a few minutes, all it takes is two minutes to go on the website and simply verify if the organization is in fact registered. A registered organization will be able to issue a tax receipt," Brideau said.

Donations pouring in

The federal government's warning comes as many Canadians are searching for ways to donate money to the earthquake relief efforts.

Elizabeth Rowe, the owner of the Urban Deli in Saint John, said the desperation faced by the Haitian population is certainly on her customers' minds

"They're bowing their heads and shaking them in disbelief," Rowe said.

"And I think it's those people who actually take a moment to say what if that was us and what if that happened to us."

Rowe's Urban Deli is just one of many businesses that have put out a change jar on the counter for donations.

However, all of the proceeds raised by Rowe's change jar will be heading to the Red Cross.