Students mobilize for Haiti
By: Alyson Martinez and Stephanie Ibarra
Issue date: 12/11/09 Section: Campus News
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The 7.3-magnitude earthquake days ago left the city in a state of shock and chaos, and the 6.1-magnitude aftershock that just occurred only continues to hamper relief efforts.
Images of the hurt and wounded, narratives from survivors, and reports on the news have helped everyone see the true catastrophe that this earthquake has caused.
Recent numbers show the initial 7.0 magnitude earthquake has claimed over 200,000 lives.
With the death toll rising, families left homeless, supplies and funds dwindling, many Americans have begun to extend their helping hand to aid the impoverished nation.
Texas A&M International University's Student Government Association (SGA) is joining the ranks, rallying students, its mission: to bring awareness to this cause by raising funds, and gathering supplies for the victims.
"It's human nature for one to feel a sense of compassion. Upon hearing about this travesty, I was completely astonished. Every member of SGA felt the way I felt, " said Christine Cortez, SGA President, "As a student from Texas A&M INTERNATIONAL University, I almost feel as though it's our duty and responsibility even more so because of our name."
The awareness campaign will focus on helping by means already used often by students, texting for the cause. As many may already be aware, The American Red Cross is accepting donations in the form of text messages. Students can text "Haiti" to 90999 to donate $10 to the International Response Fund. The money will go directly to relief efforts in Haiti, addressing issues such as feeding and sheltering Haiti survivors.
SGA will also be placing buckets at major locations around campus to collect funds starting Friday, Jan. 22. Senate members stress that no donation is too small. These funds will be given on behalf of TAMIU SGA to quick relief organizations such as Doctors Without Borders and The American Red Cross.
For those living on campus, SGA will be visiting your doorstep soon, collecting everything from clothes to spare change.
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