PDF of Letter from Shaun Chen and Donna Quan
Dear TDSB community,
It has been difficult to hear the reports and see the images emerging out of Nepal following the powerful earthquake that devastated the South Asian country over the weekend. Sadly, the death toll continues to rise each day, thousands have been left injured and an estimated 8.1 million people are in desperate need of humanitarian assistance: food, shelter, primary medical care and clean water.
The death and destruction caused by the earthquake is not confined to this distant part of the world. Family, friends and relatives of a number of people in our city – and in our schools – are lost or missing halfway around the globe.
To those who have lost loved ones or who are still anxiously awaiting word of their safety, the Toronto District School Board extends its deepest condolences. Our collective thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Please know that our psychology and social work staff will be working with principals to identify students and staff who may need support.
In recognition of our shared thoughts, flags will be lowered to half-staff at each of our schools on Monday, May 4th. We will also observe a moment of silence throughout the Board that day.
We are now being called upon to help with the enormous relief effort that is now underway and the countless resources that will be required in the weeks, months and even years ahead. With that in mind, the Toronto District School Board is asking all of its 250,000 students, more than 36,000 staff and greater school communities to help support the tdsbCARES: Nepal Region Earthquake Relief fundraising appeal.
As we have done in the past, we will be supporting the Canadian Red Cross in their relief efforts. The organization already has teams on the ground in Nepal providing assistance to those in need. To contribute online, visit the TDSB website at www.tdsb.on.ca. In addition, a collection process will be set up in each of our schools and regional offices (5050 Yonge Street, 1 Civic Centre Court and 140 Borough Drive) for donations in cash or by cheque. For all donations in excess of $20, made either online or by cheque, tax receipts will be issued by the Canadian Red Cross. The TDSB fundraising appeal will run until May 25th. The federal government has announced that they will match all eligible donations made by that date.
Thank you for your support,
Shaun Chen - Chair Donna Quan - Director of Education