How You Can Help Stand with the Victims of the Earthquake

Cursory: Syria and Turkey have been deeply affected by a significant tragedy. Explore the following list of organizations providing assistance to the earthquake victims in the region.

Assisting Those Impacted by the Turkey-Syria Earthquake: Ways to Provide Support

In the early hours of Monday, February 6th, a powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck central Turkey and western Syria. The earthquake's epicenter was located 34 kilometers (21 miles) west of the Gaziantep province, but its tremors were felt as far away as Lebanon and Israel. This seismic event, accompanied by numerous aftershocks, including one measuring 7.5 on the Richter scale, has left a trail of devastation. As of now, the toll stands at over 9,000 casualties in Turkey and 3,000 in Syria. Tragically, the death toll continues to climb as an unknown number of individuals remain trapped beneath rubble in sub-zero temperatures. In light of the profound impact of this tragic disaster, we would like to highlight some humanitarian organizations you can contribute to in order to provide support for the earthquake victims.

The Consequences of the Earthquake

Like all natural disasters, although the event itself is brief, its consequences endure significantly. Currently, tens of thousands of individuals find themselves without homes, either due to their collapse or uncertain structural integrity. Many have sought refuge in shopping centers, stadiums, or mosques, as continuous aftershocks continue to jolt the affected regions. In northwestern Syria, the situation mirrors this dire state, with nearly 4 million people (about twice the population of New Mexico) already requiring humanitarian assistance.

Regarding the earthquake's long-term impact, Turkey's already fragile economy will suffer an additional blow, as the physical damages are projected to reach several billion dollars. Furthermore, the recent COVID-19 health crisis has already strained the country's healthcare system, which now faces the challenge of caring for over 50,000 injured individuals. Additionally, the impact on children should not be underestimated. Apart from enduring injuries, displacement, and exposure to harsh weather conditions, children will also lose access to educational facilities for the foreseeable future.

Assistance is Arriving from Various Parts of the Globe

In the midst of this tragedy, a glimmer of hope has emerged in the form of a global response. More than 80 countries from around the world have extended their hands with humanitarian aid and practical assistance. Notable among them are India, Romania, Spain, and Switzerland, who are dispatching teams of well-trained rescue personnel along with search dogs. The United Kingdom is contributing seismic listening devices and concrete-cutting equipment to support rescue efforts. Greece is demonstrating earthquake diplomacy in action, a pact initiated following severe earthquakes affecting both nations in the summer of 1999. Under this agreement, they set aside their political differences to offer assistance to each other in times of need. At this very moment, a military cargo plane has already touched down in the affected area, carrying specialized rescue teams, humanitarian and medical supplies, sniffer dogs, and doctors.

Ways to Offer Assistance

If you wish to make a contribution, here is a list of humanitarian organizations that provide assistance in the affected regions, where you can donate.

UNHCR (UN Refugee Agency)

The United Nations Refugee Agency is providing assistance to individuals in Turkey and Syria, ensuring they are prepared for the cold weather by distributing tents, blankets, warm attire, sleeping mats, and more.

Syrian American Medical Society

Starting in 2011, the Syrian American Medical Society has been extending medical assistance across Syria by providing financial support to hospitals, offering training to Syrian medical personnel, and supplying vital medical equipment as required. Even in the midst of this crisis, they persist in delivering emergency aid to those affected by the earthquake.

Save The Children

In the northwestern regions of Syria and Turkey, Save the Children is diligently evaluating the plight and requirements of vulnerable children. The organization is in close collaboration with local authorities, having promptly established an emergency response team and distributed winter kits to ensure the warmth and well-being of the affected communities.

UNICEF

UNICEF is currently addressing crises in Turkey, Syria, and various other global regions, with a primary emphasis on safeguarding and providing assistance to vulnerable unaccompanied children.

The White Helmets

The White Helmets is a non-profit group consisting of over 3000 dedicated volunteers whose mission involves assisting the Syrian community through the provision of essential resources and personnel for search and rescue operations. In the past, they also played a crucial role in delivering medical assistance to individuals affected by COVID-19.

Humanitarian Relief Foundation

Since 1992, the IHH Humanitarian Relief Foundation has been providing assistance to communities affected by various disasters. Through the generous donations they receive, they are able to ensure access to clean water, nourishment, clothing, and shelter for numerous individuals affected by these crises.

Doctors without Borders

As is their customary commitment, Doctors Without Borders find themselves on the forefront of yet another catastrophic event with far-reaching consequences. Their continuous presence within Syrian borders enabled them to swiftly respond as one of the initial aid teams when the earthquake occurred.

Cessation: Natural disasters serve as a constant reminder of how fragile life is and underscore the significance of unity. Regardless of our political, societal, or economic disparities, humanity consistently rallies together in times of calamity. In the face of the ongoing crisis, which has exacerbated the hardships of millions already grappling with their own challenges, we call upon our community to lend their support in whatever way they can. You can make a difference by contributing to one of the organizations we have provided links to in this article. If financial constraints prevent you from doing so, please help us by sharing this article to raise awareness. Additionally, consider reaching out to local organizations that may be collecting clothing, food, or hygiene products to send to the affected regions. When we stand united, we become stronger, and together, we can surmount any obstacle.