May 20, 2008

Helping Earthquake Victims

The BU Chinese Students and Scholars Association is accepting donations this weekend

In an effort to deliver relief to the victims of this week’s earthquake in China, the Boston University Chinese Students and Scholars Association (BUCSSA) is seeking help from the entire BU community. The group will collect donations at tables outside Marsh Chapel May 20. All of the funds raised will be used to provide shelter and food and to help survivors rebuild their homes. The BUCSSA also needs volunteers to help take donations.

The earthquake that struck the Sichuan Province of China on May 12 was the country’s worst temblor in three decades, and Chinese officials estimate the death toll could reach 50,000. Meanwhile, thousands of survivors are not just mourning the death of their loved ones, they are without clean water or power.

Cash and checks—payable to the Tzu Chi Foundation, which is helping the BUCSSA get donations immediately to the victims—will be accepted. Receipts will be issued, and all donations are tax deductible.

Fundraising for the earthquake victims in China will take place May 20, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Marsh Chapel, 735 Commonwealth Ave. To volunteer, e-mail bucssa@bu.edu. For more information and for updates on the donation totals, please visit the BUCSSA Web site.