Shakira Pledges $400,000 To School In Haiti

Shakira was in the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince last week to announce a $400,000 donation through her charity Pies Descalzos to help rebuild a school damaged by the devastating earthquake of January 12, 2010.

The singer – who has sold more than 50 million albums worldwide – is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and created Pies Descalzos in 1995. The main goal of Pies Descalzos when it was established was to fund schools for poor children all over Colombia, but in 2008 she launched the charity globally.

The star was accompanied to the Haitian school by Luis Alberto Moreno, head of the Inter-American Development Bank, who will match the donation.

While visiting the school, Shakira was treated to renditions of her own hits performed by the young students.

“I’m convinced the key to achieve a dignified future for the Haitian people is through education,” she said. “I’d like to say to the girls that this is an enormous opportunity that life is offering you – education. So make the most of it because I’m sure you can achieve any of your dreams.”