.- Students at Christendom College have launched a fundraising effort for victims of the Haitian earthquake, pledging their support to a mission on the Haitian border.
The funds will be directed to the St. Francis of Assisi Mission in Banica in the Dominican Republic. Funds will be used to purchase relief supplies, such as blankets, food, water and medical supplies.
The mission is sponsored by the Diocese of Arlington and has been the destination of many mission trips from Christendom. According to the college, the student Outreach Club is leading the donation drive.
“Though the devastation of this earthquake has created serious obstacles for countless people, it has also created an opportunity—an opportunity to act in a spirit of service and charity,” explained Sarah Miranda, a senior at Christendom who is president of Outreach. "These people are battling hunger and hopelessness caused by the deaths of loved ones and the deprivation of their basic necessities: food, water, shelter, and clothing."
Also noting the essential role of prayer, Miranda said a donation would help an effort that can “turn despair into hope.”
Brian Gallagher, another Christendom senior, said he had an “incredible experience” in a 2008 visit to Haiti.
“I saw their poverty firsthand and even visited a medical clinic,” Gallagher commented. “They needed our help before the earthquake and now their needs are only rising. We must act out of charity to help those less fortunate. This is an amazing opportunity for us to come together and make a little sacrifice that could save lives."
The Outreach Club will host an on-campus fundraising concert featuring country, folk and Irish music.
More information on Christendom College’s relief effort is available at http://www.christendom.edu/haiti.
