Dear Parents
I'm sure you are all very aware of the disaster that has struck the people of Haiti. Last week's huge quake killed an estimated 200,000 people, left 250,000 injured and made 1.5 million people homeless. A big international aid effort has been launched, but is struggling with overwhelming logistical problems. One aid agency yesterday estimated that 20,000 people who could be saved by surgery are dying every day because they have no access to it.
The needs are great, and many of you might have been wandering how you can help.
Next Tuesday 26th January we will make a collection at both schools with proceeds divided between SOS Malta and the Salesians. The Salesians had 11 schools in Haiti, 8 of which have been destroyed, with the death of 500 students and four members of the Order.
Tuesday will be a Dress Down Day - at all levels from Early Years to Fifth Form uniforms should not be worn to school. We will be talking to students about the tragedy and holding a minute of silence at assembly (in the case of Early Years children anything we do will obviously be age appropriate). Besides making an appeal to you parents we will also be asking the pupils to make their own donation.
Please place any contributions you may wish to make in an envelope and send with your children. The envelopes will be picked up by the class teachers at Chiswick House School and by Form Tutors at St Martin's College. Sixth Formers may leave any donations with Ms Rita.
Many thanks for your support and co-operation in this matter.
Best regards,
Patrick Tabone