GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN (January 21, 2010) - Aquinas College has joined with thousands of organizations worldwide in response to the devastating earthquake that struck Haiti on January 12.

AQ Hope for Haiti is collecting emergency supplies, including food (rice, beans, peanut butter, powdered milk, canned milk and cooking oil) and medications (pain relievers, antibiotic ointment, ace wraps and bandages). The effort is also collecting soap, blankets, sheets and towels. Drop boxes are located throughout the Aquinas campus.

The AQ collection will continue through February 12, 2010. The supplies will be given to our local community partner, Rays of Hope for Haiti, who will transport the items to Haiti and distribute them through partner organizations. As of January 21, AQ students have worked with other organizations to raise nearly $3,000 for Rays of Hope for Haiti.

Aquinas also supports donations to the Diocese of Grand Rapids for Catholic Relief Services ' Haiti relief efforts and donations to Rays of Hope for Haiti to cover emergency shipping costs. AQ Campus Ministry can also forward your checks to these organizations.