Dear LaGuardia Community,
We continue to watch in sorrow as rescuers race to find survivors in the rubble after the powerful earthquake that struck Morocco on Friday, September 8. More than 2,800 people have been killed and 2,500 injured, to date, according to news reports.
We’re deeply saddened by the loss of life and devastation caused by this massive earthquake. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those who were impacted by this catastrophic event.
The epicenter of the 6.8-magnitude earthquake was in the High Atlas mountains, about 72 miles southwest of Marrakech. It is the deadliest earthquake in Morocco in more than 60 years.
As rescue and recovery efforts continue, ways to help victims are being announced. Students, faculty, and staff who wish to help can do so in a variety of ways via a number of organizations. Here are just a few to consider:
- Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) cares for people affected by conflict, disease outbreaks, natural and human-made disasters, and exclusion from health care in more than 70 countries. Learn more.
- Islamic Relief USA provides relief and development to communities throughout the world regardless of gender, race, or religion. Their representatives are currently in Morocco, and working with other humanitarian organizations to assess food, shelter and healthcare needs. Learn more.
- UNICEF, a global leader in humanitarian relief, responds to hundreds of emergencies every year — delivering lifesaving relief, safeguarding children’s rights, and protecting them from harm. Learn more. Learn more.
Members of our campus community impacted by this tragedy who would like emotional support or counseling should consider contacting LaGuardia’s Wellness Center at WellnessCenter@lagcc.cuny.edu for direct assistance or a referral to other services.
Thank you for your concern, support, and compassion.
Sincerely,
Kenneth Adams
President
Dr. Alexis McLean
Vice President for Student Affairs