SCAD does its part for Haiti relief
By Taylor Justin
On Jan. 12, an enormous tragedy struck the country of Haiti. The Caribbean island, about the size of Maryland, experienced a 7.0 earthquake. The quake destroyed homes, workplaces and the main hospital in the capital, Port-au-Prince.
According to the New York Times it was “the worst earthquake to hit the region in over 200 years, with as many as 50,000 feared to be dead. The country itself is one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere, with over four out of five people living in poverty.”
The earthquake has made the current situation of the Haitian people worse.
Many countries, including the United States, are joining together to raise funds for this disaster. E! News reported that Hollywood stars are doing their part to contribute. Stars such as Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt donated $1 million to the relief effort. George Clooney will host a two hour, commercial-free telethon supported by a host of networks including MTV, BET, ABC, FOX, CMT and VH1. The benefit will air on 8 pm on Jan. 22.
Many organizations have also raised awareness by conducting their own methods of fund raising. Haitian musician Wyclef John encourages people to text “YELE”to 501501 that will donate $5 dollars to his Yele nonprofit organization. Donations can also be sent via text to 90999, with “HAITI” written in the text body, which will donate $10 to the American Red Cross to aid in relief efforts.
This disaster has caused a call for action here at SCAD as well. SCAD has begun its relief fund for students, faculty and staff who have Haitian ties. Those who wish to donate may do so by visiting the SCAD site and select SCAD Emergency Relief Fund to donate to the cause.
Donations through SCAD can be made through this form and under the drop down selection. The donations aid students, faculty, staff and alumni who have ties to Haiti in dealing with these difficult times.
