Heritage Clubs Supports Haiti Victims

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(Photo/Carlos Pulido)

By Savannah Hartnett

Published: January 19, 2010 - 3:16 pm

When a country faces tragedy, the global community unites to help the affected area in any way possible. After a 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck Haiti’s capital, Port au Prince, on January 12, the world rallied together to aid the country.

At American Heritage, students donated necessities to Haiti in a supply drive that took place from January 14-22. Additionally, students and parents donated money to the American Red Cross Association.

Upon hearing about the earthquake, senior Misty Gonzalez, president of the Pre-Med club, along with club sponsor, Dr. Pulido decided to host a supply drive to help Haiti. After speaking with Ms. Krauss, who heads the ICC (Inner Club Counsel), the drive was proposed to Ms. Butts.

Ms. Butts instantly approved the drive. A large drive encompassing the whole school, including lower school, took place. Seniors Matt Kronick and Misty Gonzalez, freshman Daniella Carelo and Dr. Pulido spearheaded the drive at Heritage.

haiti-center

(Photo/Carlos Pulido)

As a Haitian, Gonzalez is personally affected by the disaster. “I have family in Haiti. I used to live there, so it’s more personal for me…[The earthquake] is Armageddon for everyone in Haiti; it’s an event that crossed all class and race boundaries,” she said.

To help the disaster-struck nation, over twenty boxes of medical supplies, food, water, and other life necessities were collected in the Upper School Library.

A U-Haul truck supplied by an AHS parent was loaned to the school for three days. This truck was loaded with supplies which were flown to Haiti and sent to a warehouse that was not affected by the earthquake. According to Gonzalez, water and medical supplies, necessities to survival, are the most needed items.

Spending a little money to buy supplies to donate, AHS students have made a difference by aiding Haiti. To make a monetary donation, visit the American Red Cross website.

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