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Message on the Haitian Earthquakes
Springs Steele, Ph.D.

To Members of the University Community:

We have received an outpouring of requests to be of assistance to the Haitian people. We are also in close contact with members of the Jesuit community in Haiti, and Haitian members of the Saint Joseph’s community. What we have learned from them is that there are significant logistical difficulties in transporting and delivering food, water, and medical supplies to those most in need. Our recommendation for those who wish to provide immediate assistance is to make a donation by check to the Jesuit Mission Office in Montreal, as suggested in Fr. Lannon’s message of January 13th, or to Catholic Relief Services. Contact information for both is provided below.

Early next week we will have a liturgical gathering for the Haitian people. We will also begin planning a University program designed for educational assistance to the Haitian people. It is our view that this is very significant need, especially at the middle school level. It is also most consistent with our mission, and draws on our rich resources in educational outreach. Information about this initiative, and updates, will be available on the Mission website.

We will of course be happy to accept care package items (bottled water, shirts, sweaters, pants, sneakers, flip flops, blankets, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, medical supplies such as bandages, over-the-counter items such as ointments, band-aids, etc.), and transport them to direct care agencies. Items may be dropped off at Wolfington Center.

Again, the response of our University community to the needs of the Haitian people has been remarkable, demonstrating that we really are persons with and for others. Please feel free to contact me by e-mail (esteele@sju.edu) or phone (x1027) with any questions, suggestions, or concerns about our response to this ongoing crisis.

Contact Information:

Jesuit Mission Office, Montreal Catholic Social Services
Bureau des Missions
45, Rue Jarry Ouest
Montréal, Québec
H2P 1S6
Canada
Phone: 1-877-HELP-CRS
Online: www.crs.org
Mail: Catholic Relief Services
P.O. Box 17090
Baltimore, Maryland 21203-7090
Memo portion of check: Haiti Earthquake
Write "Haiti Earthquake" in the memo line of your check.

Sincerely,

Springs Steele
Vice-President, Mission and Identity