By Lexi MooreSchool districts across Minnesota are getting involved to help the American Red Cross raise money for the victims of the Dec. 26 tsunami disaster.It has been 2 1/2 months since one of the largest earthquakes to strike the globe rocked the ocean floor off the coast of Indonesia. The historic quake triggered tsunami waves that brought massive flooding, swept away entire coastal villages and took tens of thousands of lives with little or no warning throughout southern Asia and coastal regions as far as eastern Africa. The waves also left a staggering number of people injured and homeless. Hills-Beaver Creek joined school districts from Pipestone, Luverne, Brewster, Murray County and Worthington in raising money for the Red Cross Tsunami Relief Fund.Student council members at the H-BC Elementary School organized a fund-raiser in February.Students brought loose change and funds to the school for a total of $345.22. Student Council Secretary Megan Leuthold wanted the fund-raiser "to help the survivors."The American Red Cross has publicly thanked the country for participating in "one of the greatest demonstrations of compassion and support in its 124-year history." Support is felt in the local chapter as well, according to Luverne’s Carol Morgan. "Out of five counties in our chapter we have donated $12,699.22 to the international effort, which is astounding," said Morgan, executive director of the American Red Cross, Southwest Minnesota Chapter."That is a lot of elementary students digging into their piggy banks," she said.Marsha J. Evans, President and CEO of the American Red Cross, said she’s appreciates national support for the organization."We are honored and inspired that so many Americans have confidence in the American Red Cross to turn their care and compassion into action," she said on the Red Cross Web site. "The generous outpouring of support has enabled us to provide immediate lifesaving aid as well as prepare to provide longer-term assistance to help rebuild families and communities."To donate to the American Red Cross for tsunami relief or to help support their efforts in responding to any disasters, see www.redcross.org or call Morgan at 507-372-4702.