Tues. Feb. 7, 2023 - Dr. Bob Lorinser (D, MI01)
Over 5,000 people have died and tens of thousands are injured in the strongest earthquake the world has witnessed in more than 80 years. Families in Türkiye and Syria are devastated.
The pain and suffering are compounded by Syria's civil war, the surge of refugees into Türkiye, and the economic problems of both countries.
Governments across the globe — adversaries and allies — are sending search teams, medical squads, and humanitarian aid.
The outpouring of international assistance is the epitome of hope required in our increasingly precarious world. Regardless of political beliefs, race, creed, or color, in times of desperation, the world unites and answers the call of humanity.
I support U.S. efforts to provide emergency assistance, and send profound condolences to grief-stricken citizens of both nations during this tragedy. Here are 10 ways to give to humanitarian aid.
Syrian American Medical Society
The Syrian American Medical Society is a relief organization working on the front lines of the crisis. They continue to service the area though at least one of their hospitals has been closed due to damages caused by the temblors.
They are asking for donations to purchase trauma supplies and continue to provide emergency aid to their patients.
UNICEF
The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has also mobilized aid to Syria, and is focusing on assessing the impact the quake had on water stations and any other interruptions to services. It is also assessing the damages schools face. UNICEF said another priority is helping unaccompanied children find their families.
You can donate here to help.
The White Helmets
The White Helmets, a nonprofit organization made up of 3,000 volunteers who help the Syrian community, said they need more equipment and supplies to continue numerous search and rescue operations in the region.
The organization previously helped deliver primary care to patients with COVID-19, offered ambulance services to those with more severe cases, and also regularly provides maternal healthcare.
You can make a financial contribution at the following link.
Turkish Red Crescent (Türk Kızılay)
The Turkish Red Crescent has more than 240 staff and hundreds of volunteers in the disaster region providing mobile kitchen and catering services to the region, according to a press release. They are also sending over tents, blankets and beds.
The organization is asking people to donate blood as they continue to ship blood from their existing supplies throughout the day. The Red Crescent provided their bank details for donations in a tweet, but you can also donate here.
International Rescue Committee
The International Rescue Committee (IRC), an organization that responds to the most serious humanitarian crises, works in more than 40 countries. “IRC teams are on the ground and working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of our staff, local partners and those affected,” said Tanya Evans, the Syria Country Director for IRC.
Consider making a gift here.
Save the Children
Save the Children is working in northwest Syria and Turkey to best assess aid necessary, but are planning to support affected communities with emergency kits amid the harsh winter weather. You can make a contribution to their Children’s Emergency Fund at the following link.
Global Giving
Global Giving, a nonprofit that connects other nonprofits to donors, has launched the Turkey and Syria Earthquake Relief Fund, with a goal of raising $5 million dollars to help with the immediate food, shelter and water needs. Once the initial need is completed, funds will support longer-term recovery efforts.
Project HOPE
Project HOPE, a global health and humanitarian aid organization, has deployed emergency teams to help on-the-ground. You can support their work here.
Humanitarian Relief Foundation
The IHH Humanitarian Relief Foundation has been serving communities impacted by catastrophe and war since its founding in 1992. It is collecting donations to send water, food, and shelter materials to people in need. They also have a mobile soup kitchen making rounds in the region. Consider donating here.
Doctors Without Borders
Doctors Without Borders has provided immediate emergency support through additional staffing, blankets and kits in northwestern Syria in the wake of the earthquake. You can help by donating at the following link.