GoFundMe Shuts Down Fundraiser Amid Allegations of Misrepresentation

GoFundMe has closed a fundraising campaign aimed at supporting the cancer treatment of Donald Johnson’s wife. The campaign had amassed nearly $740,000 before its termination due to claims that it was initiated by Johnson’s daughter under an alias.

On September 25, GoFundMe received a tip suggesting that the person behind the campaign, identified as “Erin H,” was Johnson’s daughter, a detail omitted from the fundraiser. “Erin H” later confessed to being his daughter during a recorded call, according to the company.

The GoFundMe page previously stated that “Erin” reached out for help after witnessing Johnson struggling to carry her luggage, which was lost during a flight. Johnson said he undertook this effort to gather funds for his wife Josephine’s cancer treatment. The couple has been married for 57 years.

“Ensuring GoFundMe is a safe and trusted place to give and receive help is our top priority,” GoFundMe told Fox4. “After further review by our Trust & Safety team, the organizer account and fundraiser were found to be in violation of our Terms of Service, leading to its removal and refund.”

GoFundMe emphasized that protecting donor generosity and maintaining support for genuine fundraisers are critical. Their stated policies, aligned with payment processor requirements, demand authenticity and transparency from fundraisers, which they enforce rigorously.

Newsweek attempted to reach GoFundMe for additional comments outside of regular office hours.

This story is developing and will be updated as new information becomes available.