Thinking of buying a coffee today? Why not donate your change to the ongoing relief and recovery efforts in Japan? Every dollar counts and will help support the people of Japan as they continue to struggle following the 9.0-magnitude earthquake and ensuing tsunami that struck the country on March 11.

Boxes of buttons will soon be out at food service locations across campus. All proceeds will be donated to the Canadian Red Cross. Although recovery efforts are under way, many dangers continue to plague the country, including the damaged nuclear reactors. Help Japan overcome this terrible tragedy. Together we can make a difference.

From Sunday, March 13 to Friday, March 18, four students from the Telfer School of Management will brave the cold to sleep outside the Thompson Residence, near the Morisset Library and Unicentre entrances, in support of the national Five Days for the Homeless campaign.

Eating and drinking donated items only, and living without access to the many creature comforts we all take for granted such as beds, showers and cell phones, these students will seek to raise funds and awareness of homelessness. Together with students at Carleton University, they are collecting donations in an effort to raise $15,000 for the local charity Operation Come Home, which focuses on homeless youth at risk.

I encourage you to support this important cause by visiting these students, who are forgoing their comforts for five full days and nights. You can drop off your donations directly with them or make a contribution through the Five Days for the Homeless website. Just select Ottawa (Ottawa U) from the Choose a School menu at the top of the page.