More than 5,000 people are dead and an estimated four million are displaced and homeless after a typhoon hit several islands in the Philippines on Nov. 8.
In an effort to raise relief funds and assist those affected, campus minister Janice Ryan will be hosting a clothing drive and bake sale on Thursday in JDH.
“Of course, everyone has busy lives. Students have exams coming up and papers to complete. But I think it’s important for us to just to stop for a moment and honour those people affected in the crisis.”
Ryan said her hope is for the whole STU community to come together and participate in this cause.
“They can donate money or coins, some clothing, bake a treat to be resold or even come and volunteer your time for thirty minutes or an hour. It’s a simple way of saying anybody can do something to help.”
Ryan extended an invitation to the Multicultural Centre of Fredericton and the St. Thomas International Student Association to come help.
Roger Miranda, an international student from Nicaragua, said he plans to attend the fundraiser and wants to do everything he can to assist those less fortunate.
“It reminds me of how interconnected we all are and the call to humanity that we have.”
Ryan said she appreciates the response she has gotten from the student body so far and she welcomes others to come out and get involved.
“This event signifies that we’re trying to act and although students have busy lives, I know there’s a willingness to help.”
The fundraiser will take place from 12 – 4 p.m on Thursday. All proceeds will go to the Canadian Red Cross Relief Fund for the Philippines.
