How to Help After the Deadly Turkey-Syria Earthquake

On February 6th, 2021, a devastating earthquake shook the nations of Turkey and Syria. With a magnitude of 7.8, it quickly became one of the largest earthquakes in the region's history. The earthquake was felt across many countries and caused widespread destruction in the affected areas, leaving hundreds dead and many more trapped in the rubble. Although the epicenter was located in Turkey, the tremors of the quake were felt in neighboring countries as far as the Middle East, Europe and the Caucasus region. Despite the fact that there were no other earthquakes reported in the area for the past 32 months, this tragedy has had a lasting impact on the affected regions.

The situation is dire, and immediate action is needed to provide relief and assistance for those affected by the disaster. We have listed ways to help the victims of the earthquake, from providing donations to offering support and assistance to those in need. No matter how small the contribution, every little bit helps in making the difference between life and death and returning those affected to a sense of normalcy.

The Union of Medical Care and Relief Organisations (UOSSM) is urgently calling on the international community to provide emergency funds to ensure aid and rescue resources are available immediately. UOSSM, who have been offering impartial aid and medical care to war victims in Syria since 2012, are currently facing an overwhelming situation and need immediate support to save lives. With the burden of this crisis on their shoulders, the UOSSM is pleading for the assistance of the global community in order to ensure all those in need are given the assistance necessary for survival.

https://www.uossm.org/donate_now

Blood reserves in Turkey have dropped to critically low levels, with only 35,000 units available in January 2023. This is far below the national minimum of 50,000 units. For those living in Turkey, donating blood is an important way to help address the shortage, and the Turkish Red Crescent encourages donations.

https://www.kizilay.org.tr/Subeler

CARE International is evaluating the most pressing requirements to assist with the emergency situation.

https://www.care-international.org/donate

The White Helmets is a grassroots organization of volunteers based in Syria who are providing rapid aid.

https://www.whitehelmets.org/en/

The International Blue Crescent Relief and Development Foundation (IBC) has a presence in the area and is giving aid and assistance to local authorities in their rescue operations.

The urgent needs:

• Tents

• Heaters

• Blankets

• Thermal clothes

• Ready-to-eat food

• Basic first aid kits

https://www.ibc.org.tr/EN/main

If you're not currently in the position to give a donation, you can still help by spreading the word! Share this article with people you know, or post it on your social media accounts. It is possible that someone who has the resources to financially contribute to the relief effort will be reached.