The Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) of the United Kingdom has launched a fund-raising campaign to assist hundreds of thousands of individuals affected by a severe earthquake in Turkey and Syria.
Over 11,000 people have already perished as a result of the earthquake, and this number is anticipated to climb as rescuers continue to search the rubble for survivors. Thousands of structures have been damaged, leaving many without shelter and exposing them to the risk of contracting waterborne diseases due to a lack of access to clean water.
In reaction to the calamity, the DEC, an umbrella organisation of 15 renowned UK relief charities including Oxfam, Save the Children UK, Age International, and British Red Cross, is raising funds for medical help, emergency housing, food, and clean water.
The government of the United Kingdom will match the first two million dollars in public donations, with funds also used to provide blankets, warm clothing, and heaters for safe spaces.
Saleh Saeed, CEO of the DEC, called the situation in Turkey and Syria as “heartbreaking” and urged the people to donate if they are able. According to Salah Aboulgasem of Islamic Relief, “they need medicine and warmth” and “many people are sleeping in cars because they are afraid to return to their homes because of aftershocks.”
Thursday evening, the appeal will air on BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5, and Sky. The DEC is requesting funds to support the success of pleas for victims of the Pakistan floods, Ukrainians displaced by the conflict with Russia, and those affected by the Turkey–Syria earthquakes in 2023.
