Overwhelming response to KUCSC-led earthquake relief fundraiser

A fundraising initiative led by King's University College Students' Council (KUCSC) to help those affected by the earthquake in Turkey and Syria has far exceeded expectations. The Turkey-Syria Earthquake Relief Fund, with an initial goal of $5,000, has raised over $22,000 to date. All funds will be donated to aid Islamic Relief Canada’s emergency response efforts within the affected regions.

“The response from the King's community has been overwhelming. People have been eager to contribute and spread the word about the initiative, which has helped to raise awareness and generate more donations,” says Waleed Abdulelah, KUCSC Chief Finance Officer, who began the fundraiser.

Adbulelah initially brought the fundraising initiative forward to KUCSC, who agreed to contribute 50 cents for every dollar donated, up to a total of $4,000.

“As a member of the global community, I felt compelled to take action and help those in need,” says Abdulelah. He says the initiative “was born out of a desire to make a positive impact and contribute to the relief efforts.”

Abdulelah also reached out to other organizations within the Western community and its affiliates, including the Western University Students’ Council (USC), the Brescia University College Student’s Council (BUCSC), the Huron University College Students’ Council (HUCSC), the Western Arab Students’ Association, the Muslim Students’ Association and the Pakistani Students Association.  He found the student-led organizations “enthusiastic about the cause and wanting to help in any way they could, which led to their involvement in the fundraiser.” BUSCS and HUSCS have both agreed to contribute 50 cents for every dollar donated, up to $2,000 each.

Members of the King’s community are encouraged to contribute as they are able. The deadline to donate to the fundraiser has been extended until March 3, due to “the enormous support and generosity of students and the community members at University and outside,” says Taranjeet Singh, General Manager of the KUCSC.