Turkey Earthquake Response and Relief

What is Happening in Turkey?

Two devastating earthquakes and hundreds of aftershocks in Turkey and Syria have killed over 34,000 people, with the death toll continually rising, as people dig through the rubble of collapsed buildings in search of loved ones.

Tens of thousands of people are now homeless in the bitter cold of winter. In Turkey alone, over 5,600 buildings were destroyed. Syrian cities devastated by years of war were further demolished.

Indigenous Missionaries are on the Ground

Ministry workers are on the ground in the hardest-hit cities to help uncover bodies and distribute emergency aid, but the needs are immense. The greatest needs are food, water, diapers, and blankets. Many grocery stores are closed or were destroyed, and people have lost everything in their homes.

“In the region where the refugees are, it is a disaster,” said the leader of a ministry in Turkey. “Electricity is cut off. Refugees urgently need blankets for warmth. We pray to get some socks, blankets, and warm clothes.”

A ministry leader in Syria reports that many people were unable to escape collapsing buildings in the early hours of the morning, and those who managed to survive ran into the streets with nothing but their pajamas. “They came out with nothing,” he said. “[They are] looking to get some clothes and minimal things…they are sending me messages; they are all crying. They are over-shocked. I think they are seeing how many are dead and injured. I told them we are trying to help as much as possible.”

How You Can Help

You can help save lives with your urgent gift today to meet the greatest needs of people struggling to survive. Your support will be sent directly to indigenous ministries on the ground in the affected areas who are working day and night to help suffering people.