The Academy fundraiser “Operation Haiyan Relief” raised a much needed $5,000 for victims of the disastrous typhoon which hit the Philippines in November.
The Dec. 6 fundraiser allowed students to wear pajamas, bring a stuffed animal and wear rubber slippers to school, options among several for “Wake Up and Help the Philippines Pajama Dress Down Day.”
Students could also purchase a “Lancers Care” button for $2. All of the proceeds from the fundraiser were destined for the Philippine Red Cross.
“I think this was an awesome idea to get people even more aware of the destruction caused by Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. It really was a great and fun way to get everyone involved,” said senior Gabrielle Del Rosario. “Plus, we got to wear our pajamas to school for once!”
Senior Erica Cadiz said, “Although the typhoon didn’t affect my family, it made me feel good that I was helping the homeland. Overall, the fundraiser was so much fun!”
“We were very pleased with the results because we initiated the fundraiser as soon as we could after the disaster,” said Director of Student Activities, Toni Normand. “I am proud when I walk around and see ‘Lancers Care’ pins because they show school spirit and I know we helped people who really need our help.”
In the Sacred Hearts community, about 19 percent of students identify themselves as Filipino. The fundraiser also inspired them to help with relief efforts beyond the school.
“Because of Operation Haiyan, my family and I were inspired to help my uncle, an internal medicine doctor, with packing over 10 boxes of medicines such as Tylenol and vitamins which would all go on a medical mission to those hit by the typhoon,” said senior Gezelle Siruno. “Although I couldn’t go on the medical mission, I’m happy knowing that I got to help the people there in some way through not only packing medicines, but also in ‘Wake Up and Help the Philippines Pajama Dress Down Day.’”
The check was delivered to the Red Cross by Junior Kindergarten teacher, Sandra Arnobit, who visited during the Christmas break.
“Prior to going to Manila, I had read so many sad stories about the fate that befell the residents of the southern Philippines. I read about whole families drowning and towns completely devastated by the onslaught of the powerful typhoon,” said Arnobit. “However, behind these horror stories, are stories of hope, determination, courage and kindness. I heard stories of people sharing whatever they had with total strangers even if they did not have a lot to give. I heard stories of people trying to save other families even if their own families perished.”
The money from “Operation Haiyan Relief” will be used to rebuild the lives of those affected by the typhoon.
“Elvie, the Red Cross representative, expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the donation that was given by Sacred Hearts Academy. She will be going back to Tacloban City to help in the reconstruction efforts there. Before parting, she gave me a tight hug,” said Arnobit. “I truly felt her appreciation of what the school had given. I felt proud to have been a small part in this generous endeavor.”
