Students from Oxley College have dug deep in an appeal to raise funds for those who have been traumatized by the cyclone in Burma (Myanmar) and the earthquake in Sichuan Province, China.

The response from the school community has been incredibly generous. In only one week students and families have raised $15,926.  With stories such as these repeated throughout the school: John Zhu in Grade 5 played his violin at Chirnside Park shopping centre and raised $112.20 which he donated. One family with two children, one in Prep and the other in Grade 1, decided to give all of their savings and birthday money to the appeal, a total of $70.00.

At an assembly the Oxley students were addressed by Mrs Thangi Dal, a school parent who migrated to Australia with her family from Burma and Zing Ran Huang (Russ), a Chinese International student, who actually lived in the Sichuan Province before coming to Australia. Both speakers told of their anguish and their burning desire to see their people helped through financial aide.

“The Oxley College community has always been very generous towards others in need and for this reason, we are mindful not to appeal for money too often” said Oxley College Chaplain, Pastor David Burt.  “Last year we aimed to raise $12,000.00 in 12 months so that we could build a pre-school in Cambodia. Amazingly, we raised $14,000.00 dollars in four months. This pre-school will be constructed in June and July, 2008.”

All money raised will be put straight to work through the Samaritan’s Purse International Aid Organisation who have access and approval to work in both countries.

Oxley College is a Christian School in Chirnside Park, Melbourne East - Committed to Excellence in Christian Education!