Town and village schools and nurseries have joined together in a ‘phenomenal’ fundraising effort, smashing through the £5,000 barrier, to raise vital cash for Haiti.
With funds still rising the running total stands at £5,300.
More than 15 local schools and nurseries have taken part in mufti days and other events to raise cash for the appeal.
Aid continues to flood in, to Haiti with the earthquake estimated to have killed up to 200,000 people and left more than a million homeless.
Cash from the joint effort is being funnelled through the international humanitarian organisation Operation Blessing.
It will be spent on food, water and medicine to support the desperate population.
Operation Blessing Senior Vice President for the UK, Andrew Charles who lives in Newport, said he was immensely proud of the town.
He said: “Both Operation Blessing and I would like to take this opportunity to express to everyone whom took part in our Haiti appeal our sincerest thanks.
“The response of Newport and the surrounding area has been phenomenal.
“Our fundraising for Haiti has broken through the £5,000 barrier and is something for all concerned to reflect upon with pride and honour.
“Our community has been seen to have responded so well, and with such care and compassion, to the plight of people of Haiti.
“I wish to thank everyone in Newport and it’s surroundings, with special thanks to the head’s of all the schools, the nursery owners, Irene Lawrence and the Chetwynd Aston and Woodcote Parish Council for their support.”
The widespread community effort saw town schools Moorfield, Adams’ Grammar, Newport Junior, Burton Borough, St Peter and Pauls and Castle House joining together.
Nurseries including Abacus, Butterflies, Noah’s Ark, Tiggywinkles, Playdays and Forton also hosted mufty days to raise funds.
Village schools, Church Aston Infants and Tibberton also donated along with nearby Abraham Darby School in Telford.
Newport Girls High will be finishing their fundraising efforts this week adding to the funds.
The charity was also given an added cash boost when Chetwynd Aston & Woodcote Parish Council added £100 to the pot after setting their 2010 budget.
Cosy Hall was also generously provided free of charge for Wednesday’s photo shoot.