By NATALIE SACKET
Staff Reporter
An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.8 struck Nepal Saturday. The tragedy rocked the nation and garnered international attention within hours. The death count has climbed to over 4,600 individuals, with millions injured and missing. It was a catastrophe that touched every Nepali individual and has shook the entire world.
As Northwestern is currently home to 61 Nepali international students, this catastrophic event has resonated with this university as well. Numerous posts on social media called for prayers and aid to be given to this nation in its time of great need.
Anyone wishing to support Nepal and its citizens during this time of tragedy can donate at https://www.unicefusa.org. American Red Cross is also taking donations at http://www.redcross.org.
The Baptist Student Ministries is also accepting donations on behalf of the Red Cross until May 6. The BSM is accepting the following items: protein bars and cereal bars, candies that have high calories, small bottle of pain, killer/fever reducers and multi vitamin bottles, first-aid kits / Band-Aids, blankets, tents, sleeping bags, masks and gloves.
According to Chandler Steckbeck, Northwestern sophomore, “I am a college student. I don’t have a million dollars to offer in aid, and I can’t fly over and offer to dig through the rubble. I know many who will read this are in the same position. Despite our limitations, we still have power. There is a small part of the grieving and hurting country of Nepal in our own university. We can offer smiles, hugs, and words of comfort. We can be there; we can listen. Kindness and compassion transcend every language and cultural barrier.”