Community Rallies Support for Devastated Haiti

     Since a series of powerful earthquakes struck Haiti in January, the American Red Cross and its sister societies from around the globe have worked tirelessly to help the survivors in Haiti to recover. 
     To date, it has spent or committed $80 million, with approximately 69 percent of the funds spent or committed for food and water; 20 percent for shelter; and 11 percent for health and family services. As the response progresses and recovery begins, the Red Cross will continue to support these priority areas and longer-term assistance initiatives.
      From bake sales, lemonade stands, concerts and collection cannisters in stores, businesses and schools, many have taken action to help the survivors of Haiti. By making a monetary gift to the Red Cross, vital supplies such as food and water, tents, tarps, hygeine kits and health supplies have been reaching the people of Haiti. 
     “The needs are great, but the generous support of the American people is making a difference every day,” said Tom Brown, Regional Executive for the Red Cross. "Our community is a very giving one and answers the call when help is needed."
     William Fleming High School is an example of how a group of students came together to make a difference. Several Haitian students who have family members in Haiti immediately asked to help by collecting money. The International Baccalaureate (IB) students were also planning a money drive and the two groups joined forces. 
     The Haitian students began collections at lunch, while the IB students collected at sporting events. The collections continued for a week. 
     Corey Allder, ELL Teacher at William Fleming remarked, "Around the whole school you could sense that everyone wanted to help out. We had a great response from students, teachers, and the community."
     The response was indeed a good one. Together, the groups raised $1,328.35. "We are extremely proud of our William Fleming family in this effort to make something good come out of a terrible tragedy," said Allder.
     It is clear that what took minutes to destroy will take many years and the collective support from governments and relief agencies across the globe to help rebuild. Because of extraordinary support from the American public, the American Red Cross will continue to play an important role in relief efforts in the months ahead.