In 2010 an earthquake with a 7.0 magnitude hit Haiti, devastating many civilians economically and emotionally. Nearly 230,000 were killed and three million lost their   homes, school were destroyed. Although the earthquake occurred four years ago the government of Haiti is still trying to rebuild. However, not everything can be replaced; many families were destroyed from this catastrophe with over 100,000 children becoming orphaned.

Curtis as well as other high schools on Staten Island have stepped in to help the people of Haiti by collaborating with the  Stephen Siller: Tunnel to Towers Foundation.  They raised money which is to be donated to children in need. The money will go toward the building of Stephen’s House of the Maison d’Enfants por la Foi Orphanage in Haiti.

The faculty raised money from April 9 to  April 23  and the Muslim Students Association and the Christian Club also solicited donations through April 30th. These clubs helped raise  $1,000 dollars.

Ms. Dichiaro, one of the faculty sponsors from Curtis, said, “I am involved with the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and when I learned that over 100 children were displaced and living in squalor I felt that we could possibly help change the lives of these children in desperate need,” said Dichiaro.

Ms. Dichiaro also attended the Staaten where at the Magic & Miracles Benefit Dinner for the Stephen’s House of the Maison d’Enfants por la Foi Orphanage in Haiti.   “The best part of the evening was that even more money was raised for this worthy cause,” said Dichiaro  When asked about how this fundraiser will impact many lives of Haiti, Dichiaro said “I think it will definitely help. The money raised is going directly to the building of the orphanage. Every little bit helps and the Curtis family is known for its generosity in times of need.”

Mr. Hepworth, who also assisted with the fundraiser and realized the impact that the funds would make. “ This fundraiser will make a difference. So many adults were killed from the earthquake and so many of their children were left alone in the aftermath. It’s really upsetting,” said Hepworth.

Mr. Hepworth also said “ The money earned will aid the orphanage in some way. Especially since Haiti has become one of the poorest countries in the world.”

According to the Tunnel to Towers website, this orphanage project is part of the organization’s Legacy of Love Program and its aim is to help raise funds to relocate an orphanage for over 100 children who need a safe place to heal and thrive.  This project is still ongoing and the needs of the children remain immense.

Ms. Dichiaro, when speaking about how much Curtis helped Haiti itself, said ” I was very impressed with the clubs and students involved with this fundraiser. They did a fantastic job and it was much appreciated by me and the Foundation, so many thanks to all you students.