Jacklyn Pierce performs to benefit Haiti at the concert on Thursday in the Pilot House.

The nation of Haiti has struggled for survival since its independence was claimed in 1803, but the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that hit the country on January 12 brought the country to its knees. “At least 52 aftershocks have hit Haiti, all measuring 4.5 or greater,” Jean-Germain Gros, associate professor of political science and public policy, said. “[The earthquake] killed hundreds of thousands, and left over 1 million without shelter.” Since, the American Red Cross has called for donations to support rescue and relief efforts in Haiti, and the students and organizations at the University of Missouri-St. Louis have rallied together to raise money and collect donations in order to aid those left with nothing in our neighboring nation.

“Finding Hope for Haiti,” UM-St. Louis’ benefit concert for the country, took place Thursday in the Millennium Student Center’s Pilot House. Refreshments were served, and three bands were present to provide music and their own insight into the situation in Haiti throughout the evening.  Professor Gros, who is from Haiti, gave a speech concerning the history of the country, the present conditions and the severe need for aid there.

Students present had strong feelings concerning the rescue and relief efforts currently being conducted. “Quite a few students either had a personal reason to help Haiti or thought it was a good idea, and thought this would be a great way to raise funds and awareness,” Brittany Holmes, graduate, higher education, said.

“I found out about it from a fellow member of Inter Varsity here on campus,” Eboni Sampa, freshman, accounting, said. “Many members are present, and I invited my mom because it sounded like a great project to support.” Her mother, Charleese Sampa, Liutenant Commander in the United States Navy, will be aiding the relief efforts in Haiti as of this week. “The relief efforts are formed mostly of civilian organizations,” Sampa said when asked for her feelings on the efforts made by the American Red Cross, and regarding the benefit concert. “The military helps, but what you guys are doing here is very important. Be it medicine, food, or funds, whatever can be given will help get Haiti back on its feet in a timely fashion.”

Students from many organizations on campus helped organize the concert, including the Office of Student Life, the Student Government Association, and members of the Inter Varsity Christian Fellowship.

Each of the artists had their own opinions regarding the efforts put forth. “I have a lot of friends in the military in Haiti,” Jaclyn Pierce said. “Anything we can do to support their efforts is great.”

“Hopefully this will make people live life in the moment and share more love around the world,” Monties Gillespie, leader of Soul Era, said.

“Haiti’s gonna need a lot of love: not just today or tomorrow, but for years to come,” Raspa Johnson of Massive Hi-Fi, said

“Everyone’s presence here tonight shows that they care, and for such a good cause,” Gros said. “For me, it’s good to see some idealism in the new generation. People in my generation feel it’s generally in short supply, so it’s nice to see students working so hard.”

The money raised at “Finding Hope for Haiti” will be donated to the American Red Cross’ Haiti Relief and Development fund.