The 146th: Being Charitable with Figures

I often find myself baffled by the statistics and figures presented in the press. Today I find another good example.

According to the CNA:

Last year, charitable donations to non-profit organisations (Institutions of Public Character) increased by more than 50 per cent to S$280 million.

While ST reported:

CHARITIES here pulled in a record $820 million last year - a jump of more than 50 per cent from 2006…………… Despite some charity scandals in recent years, Institutions of a Public Character (IPCs) - or charities authorised to receive tax-deductible donations such as the NKF - received $820 million last year.

Both reported a 50 percent increase from 2006 to 2007. Both are referring to donations received by Institutions of Public Character (IPCs). How is it then that the amount tallied differ so greatly (280 to 820 million)?