In the weeks since Jan. 12, national coverage of the massive earthquake in Haiti has steadily decreased. However, Guilford students have shown a commitment to fundrasing efforts that reminds us Haiti’s tragedy is still relevant. In this issue’s article “Concert, pie throwing raises money for Haiti,” The Guilfordian covers recent events held by the Haiti Initiative, a collaboration of 10 student organizations.

The Initiative’s work, which has included the Penny Wars and an April 1 event with a benefit concert, a pie-throwing contest, and a bake sale, has raised over $3450.

Support for Haiti’s rebuilding efforts continues around the world as well. According to The New York Times, a multi-national fund supervised by the World Bank will dole out funds to reconstruction projects determined by a commission. This commission, composed of Haitian officials and major donors, will be led by Haitian Prime Minister Jean-Max Bellerive and former President Bill Clinton.

An estimated one million Haitians are still without homes, and the majority of the country continues to struggle with the clearing of debris from destroyed buildings.

Because of these continuing challenges, Haiti still needs support and aid. The initial outpouring of funds for Haiti by both the Guilford and international communities was invaluable, but the presented challenges require long-term attention and relief.

Students can continue to participate by helping the Haiti Initiative and their sponsoring organization, Stop Hunger Now, by packaging food relief on Saturday or by donating money and time to any number of relief organizations.

The ongoing effort to raise funds for Haiti reflects well on the Guilford student population. Different clubs and organizations have banded together and pooled their resources, generating more results and awareness than a single group could have achieved. In an impressive display of teamwork, Guilford’s Haiti Initiative is comprised of 10 different clubs.

The fact that students continue to show support for Haiti months after the earthquake occurred demonstrates that student commitments to global and localized social service are not just a fleeting promise, but a dedicated project to which many people give their time and concern.