January 18, 2010 Dear TDSB Community, Call to Action for the Disaster Relief in Haiti The immense impact of the death and destruction caused by the earthquake in Haiti is not confined to the Caribbean nation. Family, friends and relatives of many in our city - and in our schools - have been lost or are still missing, so we are all affected in some way by this catastrophe. To those who have lost loved ones, the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) extends its deepest condolences. For those who are still anxiously awaiting word of their safety, we extend hope and support. Our psychology and social work staff are working with principals to identify those students and staff who may need their assistance. In recognition of our shared thoughts and sorrow, flags will fly at half-staff at each of our schools and Board sites this week (January 18 - 22). We also observed a moment's silence throughout the TDSB schools and sites on Monday, January 18th. We are all one race - that is the human race. That's why we are asking you, our TDSB community, to pull together to support the aid and recovery effort in any way you can. No donation is too small or insignificant. An estimated 50% of homes in Port-au-Prince have been destroyed, leaving thousands, upon thousands of people in the streets. Please turn your sympathy and compassion for the survivors into action by ensuring those devastated by the earthquake receive the most basic of human needs: water, food, medical care and shelter. The Toronto District School Board is supporting Free The Children and the Canadian Red Cross in their relief efforts. To contribute to these agencies online, connect to them directly by using the following links: www.redcross.ca/tdsb and www.freethechildren.com/tdsb. In addition, a collection process will be set up in each of our schools for donations in cash or by cheque. For all donations in excess of $10, made either online or by cheque, tax receipts will be issued by the respective charities. The need is great and so we ask students and staff, parents and area residents to do what they can. We ask that you take some time in the coming days and weeks to help people we may never meet, people who need our help more than we could ever imagine. Thank you. Bruce Davis Chris Spence Chair Director of Education
