The entire Plainview-Old Bethpage Central School District recently came together to raise money for the Red Cross International Disaster Relief Fund. Together, students, faculty and community members raised over $21,000 to benefit those in crisis.

"The Plainview-Old Bethpage School District donated over $21,000 to benefit the tsunami relief fund," said Thea Linscott, director of public relations for the American Red Cross in Nassau County. "We are very proud of them and were happy to accept the check. The school did a phenomenal job with their fundraising efforts."

The American Red Cross, a humanitarian organization led by volunteers and guided by its Congressional Charter and the Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross Movement, provides relief to victims of disaster and helps people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies.

A tidal wave created by the largest earthquake in four decades ripped apart the lives of millions of people and families living along the coasts of the Indian Ocean, according to the Red Cross. Aid continues to pour into the affected region bringing lifesaving relief supplies and resources to tsunami victims who lost their families, homes and livelihoods.

"The American Red Cross, as part of the worldwide Red Cross movement, has witnessed one of the greatest demonstrations of compassion and support in its 124-year history," said Marsha J. Evans, president and CEO of the American Red Cross. "We are honored and inspired that so many Americans have confidence in the American Red Cross to turn their care and compassion into action. The generous outpouring of support has enabled us to provide immediate lifesaving aid as well as prepare to provide longer-term assistance to help rebuild families and communities."

The American Red Cross' two-phased assistance plan calls for specialized relief immediately and over the long term in the following five areas: food and safe water; healthcare and disease prevention; immediate family supplies; mental health counseling; and disaster preparedness and prevention measures.

According to Linscott, the donation from the Plainview-Old Bethpage school and community will greatly assist the Red Cross in their Tsunami relief efforts. "This was one of the largest donations that came through our chapter and the Plainview-Old Bethpage SchoolDistrict contributed the largest donation as far as school districts are concerned," said Linscott.

-Denise Nash