Rams H.O.P.E. donates $2,481 for Haiti relief aid

Rams Helping Others Prosper Everyday has been busy hosting different events to raise awareness and money for Haiti. 

The organization collected funds totaling $2,481.82.  The check, made out to the American Red Cross International Response Fund, was presented in the breezeway March 25.

 Haiti was devastated by a 7.0 earthquake Jan. 12. 

Rams H.O.P.E has hosted many events since the earthquake, including a release of 500 red and blue balloons on Feb. 16, to kick off their first event. 

Students, faculty, staff and others have contributed monetary donations.  

The Campus Activities Board donated $1,000 to the Red Cross.  The majority of the contribution was raised through donations and admissions charges from the more than 750 students who attended a Gym Jam on Jan. 15. 

Students also collected items and donations going door-to-door in the residence halls. 

"My friends and I gave money every chance we had, so I'm hoping that others did the same," said Anita Bethea, junior psychology major. 

"I can't speak for everyone else, but I will donate again, but it's a nice feeling in knowing that I helped out someone who truly needs it." 

Rams H.O.P.E. is one of  many organizations at Winston-Salem State that gives back to the less fortunate. 

"It's very wonderful to know that this money will help so many people begin to rebuild their lives," said Chelii Broussard, adviser for Campus Life Marketing Committee and the Ragin' Rams Pep Squad. 

"Most of all, it lets them know that WSSU cares." 

Rams H.O.P.E. has collected gift cards, clothes, and other donations for the relief efforts. 

"Everybody needs a helping hand," said Nikki Norris, a junior majoring in marketing from Durham.

Norris said that they are planning fundraisers for other major disasters, such as the earthquakes in Chile and Japan. 

"I believe that it is important for students to be aware of things happening in the world, not just their communities," said Mi'Chelle Johnson, junior nursing major from Charlotte. "Rams H.O.P.E. keeps students alert of international crises."

 Rams H.O.P.E. was organized in January by Broussard.

"We're new on campus and the impact that we have had so far is astounding," Broussard said.

Rams H.O.P.E. is  still requesting donations of medical supplies and food that can be dropped off at the SGA office at 106 Thompson Center or the Campus Life Office at 305 Thompson Center.