Jeans Day Raises Money for Survivors of Nepal Earthquake

People started rushing into an open ground after a fresh 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck Kathmandu, Nepal on Tuesday, May 12, 2015. At least 42 people have been killed and 1,006 injured in the Himalayan country and neighboring states, as many buildings already weakened by a much bigger quake last month were brought down. The earthquake was centered 68 kilometers (42 miles) west of the town of Namche Bazaar, close to Mount Everest and the border with Tibet, the U.S. Geological Survey said. It could be felt as far away as northern India and Bangladesh. (Sumit Shrestha/Zuma Press/TNS)

The death toll continues to rise above 4,000 after the 7.8 magnitude earthquake devastated Nepal Apr. 25. In an effort to aid the survivors, students held a Jeans Day on Apr. 1 to raise money.

Around $800 was raised to provide relief after this tragedy, according to Activities Director Danielle Bowen. Though jeans days are often quite popular on campus, a large portion of the student body spouted their favorite pair of jeans to support a good cause. The jeans day was held in the prep campus on May 2, the middle school campus May 9, and every Friday of the month in the elementary school campus.

“I am glad the money is going to a good cause. I usually participate in jeans day, but this time I am glad that my donation is part of something bigger,” said sophomore Morgan Hall.

The money will be donated to Doctors Without Borders, one of the various organizations aiding Nepal after the recent tragedy. Various estimates to the necessary cost to aid the survivors and the injured range from approximately $1 billion to $10 billion, according to CNN.

Donations and international aid are crucial following the widespread devastation and misery caused by this natural disaster. Damage from the earthquake was exacerbated by the conditions in Nepal. Kathmandu, the area that was most affected, was densely populated. In addition, the effects of the earthquake were far felt, leading to casualties in neighboring India. In addition to nearly 4,000 deaths, there are an estimated 8,000 injured.

“I was hoping to go to Nepal this summer,” said yoga teacher Mrs. Zeman. “My thoughts go out to those who are suffering from this tragedy. Nepal will never be quite the same after this level of destruction.”

In addition to the civilian troubles, the earthquake threatens long term effects as well. Ancient monuments dating back to the third century B.C. were turned into rubble, according to a recent article on ABC online. Nepal is most well-known for Mount Everest where an estimated 18 people died following the earthquake. However, as a relatively poorer country that depends on tourism, the loss of its ancient temples and common tourist spots pose long term economic concerns in addition to the cultural loss.