Shortly after the devastating earthquake that rocked Haiti on Jan. 12 the White Plains city administration met with members of the clergy, several non-profit organizations, and city staff to determine how White Plains could assist the victims. The resulting joint effort was called “White Plains Cares: Haiti Relief 2010.” It was determined at the time that because of the urgent need for medical attention, Doctors Without Borders was the most obvious organization to receive funds. On March 1, a check for $32,000 was presented. In a last minute surprise, students from White Plains High School announced they were contributing $9,000 to the $23,000 raised by White Plains Professional Fire Fighters Association, Local 274 ($13,000), children, youth, families and staff of the White Plains elementary schools ($5,000), and the Youth Bureau’s 5th Annual Dance Benefit ($5,000). With thousands of White Plains residents having ties to Haiti, the call to action hit close to home. “Supplies for Haiti” will be the focus throughout March and will be organized through the French Speaking Baptist Church, Haitians for Haitians of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, and AFYA. There is a specific list of items being gathered. Drop off points include White Plains Fire Houses, White Plains City Hall (255 Main St.), Dept. of Recreation and Parks (85 Gedney Way)., and Ebersole Ice Rink (53 Lake St.) Call 211 or visit whiteplains.ny.gov for a list of the items requested by each of the local relief organizations.