Wristbands for the Wildfires: SHS Student Government Fundraises for Australia

For months, wildfires across Australia have ravaged more than 17 million acres of land with no signs of stopping. Even with help from other countries, firefighters constantly battle against the fires that have claimed at least 28 lives and caused the destruction or damage of more than 3,000 homes. The deadly fires have been fueled by a combination of extreme heat, prolonged drought, and strong winds. The immense scope of the fires has captured international attention, as conservative estimates believe that half a billion animals have been affected by the fires across New South Wales. 

Scarsdale High School has not been immune to this concern as students have decided to take action. The SHS student government is selling wristbands to raise funds for Australians fighting against and affected by this crisis. Half of the funds will be donated to the Australian Red Cross and the other half will go to Wildlife Warriors, which has an emphasis on helping protect at-risk animals. They have already collected a significant portion of their $1500 goal and continue to accept all support. 

“The idea to sell wristbands came about during government homeroom. We all wanted to do something to help fight the fires in Australia, so we thought selling wristbands saying ‘Support Australia’ would be a great way to raise money and show some spirit,” said junior class president Michael Waxman ’21. This certainly has been accomplished, as various SHS students can be seen throughout the halls proudly wearing the red-and-white bands. They can be purchased from any student government officer for $2 for an indefinite period of time, and all additional donations are welcome.