Skip RPS, donate directly

With the tragedy of last week, many around the world have been looking for ways to help. Whether it be donating blood, money or the time given by those volunteers in New York City and Washington cleanup and rescue efforts, there is a worldwide outpouring to ease the suffering of the victims of this heinous attacks.\nAround here at IU, different organizations are doing what they can to help. \nThe blood bank is located at 409 E. 7th St. and is accepting blood donations through appointment. You can call them at 331-1300. You can also donate money by going to the Red Cross Welfare Center at 411 E. 7th St., or you can reach them by the phone at 332-7292.\nThe are many different ways to help out. And there is one way that you probably shouldn't.\nWednesday, Residential Programs and Services announced plans to offer the "Miss a Meal" program in the food courts around campus next Monday through next Wednesday. This gives students an opportunity to make a difference by using their meal points to make a donation to the relief efforts. All someone needs to do is mention they want to make a donation, and $7.50 is swiped from their meal points account, and the student goes about eating their dinner feeling they made a difference. \nIn truth, the difference they are making is not nearly as significant.\nTo cover "overhead costs," RPS said they will keep a whopping 60 percent of the donation. A mere $3 will be donated to the American Red Cross efforts. \nWhen asked about what the other $4.50 will go toward, RPS Dining Services Director Sandra Fowler said that the money goes to "fixed costs," mentioning that the staff still needed to be paid. \nBut if the donation centers will be manned by IU Student Association and Residence Halls Association volunteers, how can these costs be justified?\nRPS already has the money from funds paid by students for the meal plan. They have the money, so there should be little, if any, overhead. Students aren't receiving any services here, they are having additional points deducted. \nIt is admirable that RPS is getting involved in the rescue efforts during this tragic time in America. But if you want to make a difference, why would you do something less than halfway? If you are going to do something, you should do it right, and do it at 100 percent. \nIf the RPS really wanted to make a difference, they should offer to donate the entire $7.50 to the Red Cross efforts instead of only 40 percent. \nIf you want to help out as a student, get in touch with the Red Cross yourself where you know all your money or blood will be used for the efforts, and not only 40 percent.\n