Injured Mom Gets Fraction of GoFundMe Donations

An Ontario mother of 10, Maryanne Mullett, who was severely injured in a January 1, 2026, accident, has reported receiving only about C$6,300 from a GoFundMe campaign that amassed nearly C$20,000. Mullett stated that her sister, who organized the initial fundraiser, controlled the donations but most of the money did not reach her.

Durham Regional Police have since confirmed that a family member has been charged with fraud over C$5,000 in connection with the missing funds. Mullett, who runs an Indigenous food business and was unable to work due to her injuries, had the fundraiser created to cover expenses during her recovery.

The dispute arose over control of the original fundraising account, with Mullett expressing concern that the funds were not being managed transparently. Following the deactivation of the initial campaign, Mullett started a new GoFundMe, which has since raised over C$26,000.

Mullett's experience has amplified discussions about the safeguards needed for online fundraising. Experts advise donors to verify campaigns and establish clear arrangements for fund management to prevent similar issues, especially when a campaign organizer is not the intended recipient.