Over $7,000 raised for Haiti relief

To date, the College has collected over $7,000 in donations for Haiti relief efforts, and those still wanting to donate can do so through March 1.

The Merrimack College community continues to pray for those impacted by the tragic earthquake that recently devastated Haiti. As a community, we want to respond promptly with the most important tool Haiti needs right now – funds for relief efforts.

Merrimack College is still collecting donations for Project Medishare – a non-profit organization established by Dr. Arthur Fournier, a 1969 graduate of Merrimack who became a physician and medical school professor, and has made over 100 trips to Haiti to work for the poorest people in the hemisphere, establish medical clinics, and train doctors in that country. Project Medishare was one of the first organizations to set up hospital facilities at the Port-au-Prince airport for injured survivors. Funds collected on campus will specifically go to the Project Medishare Earthquake Relief Fund.

To best track donations, Campus Ministry will be the central office for collecting donations on campus. Collection containers were placed throughout campus, including the residence halls and the Sakowich Campus Center. Checks and/or cash can also be sent to the attention of Campus Ministry. Checks should be made payable to Project Medishare Earthquake Relief Fund.

We encourage all donations to be made on campus and not through the organization’s Web site, in order to best track the total donations from Merrimack.

“A catastrophe this overwhelming and tragic reminds us all of the fragility and vulnerability we all share as human beings, even if some of get to enjoy the illusion of security,” said Fr. Ray Dlugos, vice president of mission and ministry. “The immense suffering of our brothers and sisters in Haiti cries out to us to join them in their fear, their grief, and their pain as we reach out to them with whatever assistance we can. For years, Dr. Fournier has brought Merrimack to the poorest of the poor in Haiti and has brought the lessons they have to teach us all back to Merrimack. Connecting with the people of Haiti through Dr. Fournier allows Merrimack to reach out to our brothers and sisters in need in a more personal and intimate way.”

Student Involvement and other departments on campus are also offering additional ways of donating at athletic games and other events.

Also note that the College’s already strong relationship with Dr. Fournier won’t end with donations. As needs change in Haiti, Dr. Fournier will keep the campus updated on what type of support can be offered over time, and the College will adjust efforts accordingly.

“Our prayers remain with the people of Haiti in this incredible time of need,” said President Dr. Ronald Champagne. “We encourage the entire campus community to support those who have been directly and indirectly impacted by this tragic natural disaster. While doing so, we will also further the important work of one of our graduates, Dr. Fournier. I am confident that as an Augustinian community with a mission of enlightening and empowering others, we can make a significant contribution to relieve the suffering and devastation plaguing the Haitian people. Your generosity is much appreciated.”