Being Fully Present

“When tragedy strikes, Columbus unites in prayer and support for people in trouble, and there is no doubt that the situation in Haiti demands our attention.” 

Those are the words of Columbus, OH Mayor Michael B. Coleman.  The mayor, The American Red Cross of Central Ohio and Central Ohio media outlets are working together in support of a one day fundraising effort in support of the Haitian people.

Columbus Hope for Haiti takes place today, January 21, from 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., at the Ohio Historical Society parking lot at exit 111 off of Route 71.  Local media celebrities will be on hand to collect donations from drivers and passengers at this drive-through event.

The mayor went on to say:

“We are urging everyone to take a few moments to stop by and give what they can to help hurry aid to Haiti through our partners at the American Red Cross – it could not be easier than stopping at Columbus Hope for Haiti at the Historical Society.”

If you can’t make it to drop off a check or cash donation at today’s event, give whatever you can by donating directly to The Red Cross:

• Call 1-800-HELP NOW or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish)
• Make a secure online contribution by visiting www.redcross.org.  You can choose to designate your contribution to the International Response Fund or specifically to the Haiti response.
• Text “HAITI”to 90999 to make a $10 donation to Red Cross.

Last week’s earthquake (and subsequent significant aftershocks) was a catastrophic incident demanding worldwide assistance to help the people and culture of Haiti survive.  Millions of people are affected, with several hundred thousand injured and nearly two hundred thousand dead.  Countless people are homeless and hungry; children are orphaned.  Cities are destroyed, resources are scarce or even unavailable.

Giving Hearts

These are desperate times. The people of Haiti need the world to be fully present to their needs.

The generous people of Central Ohio can lead the way.

Please give everything you can.

This entry was posted on January 21, 2010 at 4:00 am and is filed under Random, Service. You can subscribe via RSS 2.0 feed to this post's comments.

Tags: Charity, Compassion, Culture, Life