Turkey and Syria earthquakes – UK charities launch emergency appeal

In response to the recent earthquakes that have struck Turkey and Syria, resulting in the loss of at least 16,000 lives, UK-based humanitarian charities have joined forces to launch an appeal for funds to assist those affected by the disaster.

The earthquakes, the first of which struck in the early hours of Monday have led to terrible destruction on a scale not seen in Europe for many decades.

Two main earthquakes measured 7.8 and 7.5 on the Richter magnitude scale, each released roughly as much energy as the largest-ever atomic bomb test carried out during the Cold War.

To add to this there have been clusters of aftershocks which follow from the main events.

Tens of thousands of people have been injured and according to the Turkish government, 380,000 people have sought refuge in government shelters or hotels.

Buildings also collapsed in north-west Syria where many people have fled from conflict in the country and medical facilities are limited.

Aid workers say displaced people living in tents are hosting families whose homes have been destroyed.

The Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC), a coordinating body made up of 14 charity organisations, including the British Red Cross, Oxfam, and Save the Children, is leading the effort to provide aid and support to those in need.

According to a statement released by the DEC, the earthquakes have caused widespread destruction, leaving many people homeless and in urgent need of shelter, food, water, and medical assistance.

The organisation is appealing to the public for donations to support their joint rapid response to the disaster.

“The scale of the disaster is immense, and the need for assistance is great,” said DEC Chief Executive, Saleh Saeed. “We are working closely with our member agencies to provide life-saving aid and support to those affected by the earthquakes. We are appealing to the public for their support, so we can reach as many people as possible and help them through this incredibly difficult time.”

The DEC is well-known for coordinating joint responses to major emergencies around the world, and has a track record of providing vital support to those affected by disaster.

The organisation works closely with local partners to ensure that aid and support reach those who need it most, as quickly and effectively as possible.

As the world watches the aftermath of the earthquakes unfold, the DEC is urging the public to show their support and help those affected by making a donation.

The organisation has set up a dedicated website and helpline for those who would like to contribute.

“Every donation, no matter how small, can make a real difference to those affected by this disaster,” said Saeed. “We are grateful for the generosity of the public and the support of our partner organisations, as we work together to provide much-needed assistance to those in need.”

In the face of such a devastating disaster, the appeal by the Disasters Emergency Committee highlights the importance of international cooperation and support in times of crisis.

The public is encouraged to visit the DEC website or call their helpline to learn more about how they can help those affected by the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria.

https://www.dec.org.uk/appeal/turkey-syria-earthquake-appeal