As you all know by now the nation of Haiti has suffered one of the world's worst natural disaster's to date. Haiti has suffered unprecedented devastation from a 7.0 magnitude earthquake that ravaged the nation on January 12th. Death toll rates have reached close to 200,000 people and over 1.5 million people are homeless. 

About 50 Americans have been confirmed dead and nearly 5,000 are still unaccounted for.

I realize our country is going through tough economic times at this moment, however I am asking you all to donate whatever it is you can, whether it be a penny or 20 dollars. This money will add up and I hope to reach and surpass my goal of $10,000 that will aid in the rescue, recovery, and rebuilding efforts in Haiti.

Some of you may be aware and some of you may not but as a freshman I attended Lynn University in Boca Raton, FL before transferring to The University of Hartford's Barney School of Business.  12 Lynn University students and 2 professors were in Haiti on a mission trip when this catastrophe took place. I personally knew 2 of the students that were on this mission trip. Both students were among the 6 individuals missing. 

On January 24th I received the devastating news that Courtney Hayes's, a good friend of mine, body was found. 

I am still praying that the other 3 students and 2 professors are found and reunited with their families. 

Save the Children has worked in Haiti since 1978, and currently has about 250 staff on the ground. Updates on their efforts and progress can be found at:  http://www.savethechildren.org/emergencies/latin-america-caribbean/haiti/earthquake-10/?WT.mc=0110_hp_fb_haiti 

 UPDATES: *As of 2/2/2010 we have reached the $1000 mark! Everyone should be very proud of their contributions and I would like to thank you all!                                * There will be an article in The Informer (University of Hartford's school paper) next week, that I have written in regards to our fundraising efforts.

* 2/3/2010 - I have created donor stickers that can be purchased @ http://www.zazzle.com/i_am_a_haiti_donor_sticker-217999255654629856.  All proceeds will be donated to the Save the Children organization.

*2/5/2010- You all can read the article I have written in memory of Courtney online by going to the following link:

 http://hartfordinformer.com/2010/02/opinions/lynn-students’-haiti-tragedy-hits-home/

*2/12/2010- First fundraiser on campus went well!

*2/19/2010- Fundraiser # 2 is scheduled from 11-2 PM in GENGRAS STUDENT UNION ON THE UNIVERSITY HARTFORD CAMPUS.

Thank you all & God bless

M.Cosenza