The Virgin Islands Department of Education, in response to the recent earthquake disaster in Haiti, reached out to personnel and student families, encouraging donations for the Haiti Relief Effort.
Commissioner La VerneTerry said, “On January 12, 2010, the Caribbean country of Haiti was struck by the most violent earthquake in a century, causing mass destruction and loss of lives. Thousands have been left homeless and the basic human needs are in dire short supply. Hence, in an effort to assist the people of Haiti and provide the students, parents and teachers in the territory with an opportunity to give, I have established the Department of Education Haiti Relief Effort. Through the American Red Cross Haiti Disaster Relief Effort, the Department of Education community will have a vehicle to provide direct financial assistance to the millions in Haiti. All monies collected will be forwarded to the Haiti Relief Effort.
“During the two-day donation drive, which begins on January 21, and ends on January 22, 2010, I am asking that staff and students make a $1 donation to the cause. One dollar may seem to be an inconsequential amount, but within the Department of Education community there are more than 15,000 students and 4,000 employees. With everyone giving a dollar, we can realize a contribution of more than $20,000.”
School administrators are being asked to organize the collections by class and turn in all collections to the Office of the Superintendent in their respective districts no later than Monday, Jan. 25. The monies will then be forwarded to the Office of the Commissioner.
“We are all stunned by the nightly images of devastation in Haiti, and this effort gives us an opportunity to help in some small way. On behalf of the department, I am greatly appreciative of your cooperation and support in this humanitarian effort,” said Dr. Terry.
For more information, contact Karen Pulliam Turnbull, Office of the Commissioner, ext. 8090 or Juel M. Anderson, director of public relations, at ext. 8136.
