Nathan Straus
Jacksonville Progress
JACKSONVILLE — Jacksonville Independent School District students of all ages are excited about the chance to help the residents of Haiti, High School Counselor Jan Lewis said. Haiti was devastated by an earthquake recently.
“This is something I thought about doing because I know it’s needed,” Lewis said. “This is a way for students to show compassion outside the campus.”
Water jugs, similar to those found in use at most office water coolers, have been placed at every campus in the district. Students can show they have a Heart for Haiti, the fund raising drive’s namesake, by chipping in a dollar or so to help relief efforts, Lewis said.
“There’s no monetary goal for this,” she added. “The more money raised, the better.”
The campaign will run through the end of February, Lewis said. Announcements have been made concerning the campaign several times a week since its beginning on Feb. 8.
“High school students who donate can make a heart and put it in the hallway as a visual representation that they have a Heart for Haiti,” she also said.
All donations go to Red Cross, Lewis added. The challenge of the campaign is for every student and staff member to give $1 for the fund raiser.
“What a difference we could make,” she said. “It would be great if JISD can be a part of the relief, even if it’s a small part.”
Nichols Intermediate School students have gotten excited about the chance to help out, School Counselor Diane Knowles said.
“Our kids are very generous when it comes to helping others,” Knowles added.
NIS Student Ricky Arrendondo said he is happy to help.
“If we were in an earthquake I think I’d want people to help us out, too,” he said.
NIS Student Caroline Wilde said she hopes her school’s contribution will be put to good use.
“It will help rebuild the towns and schools for their kids to learn,” she said.
Lewis said the district likes to challenge its students, staff and parents to remember those in need due to the earthquake.
