July 25, 2008

Shine your light

By Helen Hong
Staff Writer

Since the tsunami struck Southeast Asia in 2004, many victims are still trying to recover from the detrimental natural disaster. To aid recovery, Dalia Khattab, an Evergreen resident and upcoming senior at Notre Dame High School, is working with the Give Light Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to building orphanages globally, to help orphans who are still suffering from the aftermath of the tsunami.

In April, Khattab started a design contest among local kids based on the theme “Shine Your Light.” Kids were encouraged to draw what came to mind when they heard about orphans and tsunamis. The winning design will be placed on a tote bag and sold for 10 to 12 dollars in local grocery stores. The tote will be made of organic cotton in an effort to promote going green as well.

After the totes are sold, Khattab plans to donate the money to the Give Light Foundation, specifically to orphans in Indonesia. Many children still do not have shelter, food or clean water to drink, and it only takes a couple of dollars to provide an Indonesian child with basic necessities. Through this service project, Khattab hopes to increase global awareness in the community.

For more information, contact Dalia Khattab at dalz4president@yahoo.com or call (408) 623-3341.