CALL TO AID: Recent earthquake devastation in Haiti prompts UAA fundraising efforts

The AHAINA Multicultural Center leads efforts to assist those individuals in need

On Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2010, a magnitude-7.0 earthquake crippled the Republic of Haiti and left its citizens in desperate need of assistance from neighboring countries. The Haitian Red Cross said it believed 45,000 to 50,000 people had died and three million more were hurt or left homeless by the major earthquake, according to Reuters. In the aftermath, Haitian citizens are left wandering the rubble-filled streets in search of food, water and medical help. News reports are continuing to state that individuals are still being pulled from under crumbled buildings and other debris. "International rescue teams began arriving in force Thursday, Jan. 14 to assist in any way possible," according to an article on Canada.com.

The Multicultural Center at the University of Alaska Anchorage, AHAINA, which is an acronym that stands for African American, Hispanic, Asian/Pacific Islander, International and Native American, decided to initiate the fundraising efforts by the University to assist the citizens of the devastated Haiti. The program has student members of Haitian descent.

Carey D. Brown, assistant director of AHAINA Student Programs says, "AHAINA feels the need to set an example for our students, not only to succeed academically, but to succeed as members of our society and exercise their civic duties, especially in times of crisis. We know the University community is behind us as we move forward in assisting those in need."

AHAINA is working with the American Red Cross of Alaska to coordinate the fundraising efforts. Those individuals who would like to donate can do so by stopping by AHAINA, located on the first floor of Rasmuson Hall in room 106. They are available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday.

AHAINA would like to thank donors in advance for taking time out to lend a helping hand in providing some relief to the victims of this devastating natural disaster. For more information call (907) 786-4070 or (907) 786-4082.