Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012

ATLANTA (AP) -- Georgians gave less money to charitable organizations through a program allowing them to check off donations on state income tax forms.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that checkoff donations on state income tax forms dropped by 9 percent during fiscal 2011, to around $1.1 million. Fiscal 2011, which ended June 30, reflects the 2010 tax year.

State tax forms allow Georgians to donate to eight statewide organizations, including those supporting families and soldiers of the National Guard, land and wildlife preservation, cancer research, preschool and elderly programs, and dog and cat sterilization efforts.

Seven of the eight organizations received fewer dollars.

The decline in giving came despite donations in the program exceeding $1 million for the second consecutive year after dipping below the $1 million mark in 2008.

(Copyright 2012, The Associated Press)