by Adam Call Roberts

UA students were challenged to raise $50,000 to support Haitians affected by the devastating earthquake that struck the country earlier this month.

Hogs for Haiti was organized tonight as a registered student organization.  Hogs for Haiti officers will track donations made by various student groups to charities that are assisting in Haiti.

Greek organizations and other RSOs are conducting independent campaigns to raise money for the American Red Cross, WorldVision and Direct Relief International.

The SEC has set a goal of $500,000 in donations for its member schools combined.  The University of Georgia raised $34,000 through t-shirt sales and Mississippi State held a benefit concert, Mattie Bookhout, UA Associated Student Government President told students tonight.

“If nothing else, I want to beat Florida,” said Bookhout.

The Greek Life and Red Cross Student Association Ribbon Campaign is selling ribbons in the Union Connections Lounge this week for $1 to raise money for the American Red Cross.  Hogs for Haiti is ordering t-shirts to sell online and on campus next week.

The Hogs for Haiti Facebook group can be found at http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=272664723188

Registered Student Organizations which wish to raise money for charities must fill out a fund-raising form with the Center for Leadership and Community Engagement.