News Release:
Tuesday 27 September 2011

Scots College Annual Gala Proceeds Proudly Donated to Red Cross Quake Appeal

On Wednesday 28 September, Scots College Head Boys Graeme Peter and Oliver Wood will hand over a cheque for $35,000 to the Red Cross Quake Appeal.

In March this year the decision was made to donate all proceeds from the annual College Gala to the Red Cross. This money, along with a number of other fundraising initiatives by the College over the past months, will be presented to Ken Birdling, Area Manager, and Jordan Ericson, Programme Coordinator from the Red Cross, to be used to help families affected by the devastating Christchurch earthquake on 22 February.

“Immediately after the quake we welcomed 21 senior students from St Andrew’s College and Christ’s College in Christchurch to our school, so that they could continue their studies. As a school community, we were very humbled by the experience, with over 150 families, staff and community members offering accommodation to these students and their families. Not only were the Christchurch boys billeted with our families, they participated in classes, attended school assemblies, played on sports teams and became a special part of our community under very difficult and exceptional circumstances,” said Headmaster Graeme Yule.

“This experience had a profound effect on our students and it was their suggestion, supported by our Parents’ Association, staff and wider school community that led to our decision to focus our fundraising initiatives for the year on this worthy cause,” said Yule.

“In addition our senior students and Prefects helped with Red Cross donations at Wellington Airport and Railway Station, we collected 1200 cans as part of the Cans for Christchurch Resene initiative, and we raised $16,500 through generous staff donations and a school-wide Mufti Day,” confirmed Yule.

The College has a personal link to the tragedy with its new Chaplain Richard Carr previously having taught at St Andrew’s College in Christchurch which has been badly affected by the Quake. “Service to the community is, and has always been an integral part of our school culture. I am incredibly proud of the whole College’s dedication and drive to support this cause, and to now be in a position to present this cheque to the Red Cross. I know it is going to be used where it is most needed,” said Yule.

www.scotscollege.school.nz

ENDS

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