Youth Respond to Haiti Earthquake with Love and ACTION

 

We have all heard the horror stories, seen the pictures on the news and wept with the people of Haiti since the earthquake on January 12th. Many of us have also donated to the relief efforts. This past weekend, about 40 high school students responded at a much greater level—they went hungry!

The Springfield, VA Community of Christ has been hosting Hunger Challenges for many years, but this year was the biggest. The goal was to raise $6,000—enough to rebuild a school destroyed in Haiti. So far, they have raised $4,640…which is great for 40 high schoolers! But they are committed to raise the remaining $1,360.

Students said that this year was especially powerful because they really connected with the people of Haiti who need help so desperately. While everyone admitted that it was very difficult to go without food for 24 hours, they realized how little this sacrifice was compared to the needs of the people in Haiti.

The youth didn’t stop at raising money; they also took a stand for the people of Haiti by writing their senators, urging them to provide a large aid package to Haiti. Recognizing that it is important that aid is distributed effectively, students encouraged senators to provide aid that: partners with local organizations, coordinates with the Haitian government and provides cash instead of food aid. Students wrote 25 letters to senators pleading with them to stay committed to Haiti for the long-term.

You can join these students and TAKE ACTION FOR HAITI:

Stay committed to the people of Haiti.   

Host your own Hunger Challenge.   

Write your senators.  


 

Posted By (Stephen Donahoe) on Mar 12, 2010 12:00 AM CST
categories: Activism  Advocacy  Aid  Development  Education  Emergency Relief  Fundraising  Haiti  Youth 

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