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Columbia University joins the global community in mourning the victims of the recent Indian Ocean tsunami. The University extends its deepest sympathy to the millions of families worldwide affected by the tragedy, which has caused great loss of life, injury and incomprehensible destruction throughout a large swath of South and East Asia. The University's thoughts are also with regional governments and the international organizations now struggling to meet the needs of the survivors and rebuild over the long term. (Read President Bollinger's statement.)
The University is reaching out to the members of its community from Indian Ocean rim nations, as well as students, faculty and staff who might have been traveling to the area during the winter break. The Health Services Department also stands ready to assist. Health information and counseling is available to all students, staff and faculty. For more information, or to schedule an appointment at Counseling & Psychological Services, call (212) 854-2284 or email health@columbia.edu. For students with related insurance questions who are covered under Columbia's student medical insurance plan, contact the insurance office at (212) 854-7210 or email hs-enrollment@columbia.edu.
Columbia is also committed to taking an active role in responding directly to the catastrophic tsunami. At Columbia University Medical Center, the International Emergency Medicine Relief Fund has been established to facilitate Columbia faculty and staff efforts.
The United Nations, the World Bank and the United States Department of State have called on Earth Institute researchers to provide critical data to aid both short- and long-term relief work. The scientists also hope to create mechanisms for preventing similar catastrophes from taking place in the future.
In addition, student groups and other organizations are encouraging donations to reputable organizations working in the affected area. The University will continue to assess ways to assist on the ground and will be updating this information as it becomes available. Below is list of several nonprofits active in the region.
The International Red Cross www.redcross.org
UNICEF www.unicef.org
Doctors Without Borders www.doctorswithoutborders.org
Save the Children www.savethechildren.org
Cares USA www.careusa.org
The International Rescue Committee www.theirc.org
USA Freedom Corps www.usafreedomcorps.gov
Additional Resources:
- Columbia University International Students and Scholars Office
(212) 854-2284 isso@columbia.edu
For emergencies only, call (212) 854-5555. |
