Everyone here at Nurture the Children was devastated to hear about the earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria last month. Our hearts are with those affected.
What happened: A 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit the border of Turkey and Syria on February 6th 2023 causing widespread destruction. The disaster toppled apartment buildings, schools, and hospitals, leaving communities and infrastructure in ruins. Entire communities have been uprooted with nowhere to go and no supplies.
What about the children: Snow and bitter winter weather have placed children at great risk of hypothermia as they struggle to survive in sub-zero temperatures. Many survivors have had to sleep in cars, outside, or in makeshift shelters. Doctors have warned that children are also at risk of exposure to waterborne diseases such as cholera or hepatitis A, due to the damage to shelters and water infrastructure.
These children are now even more vulnerable to family separation, exploitation, and abuse. As buildings are deemed unsafe, they also are unable to return to school, affecting their education.
Nurture the Children needs your support and donations to help the children and victims affected by Turkey Earthquakes.
Dr Merve Kavaz-Kesmen, one of our volunteers, is helping the children and victims of this disaster. Ten cities have been affected by the earthquake. Thousands of people have lost their loved ones and family members.
“My name is Dr. Merve Kavaz – Kesmen. I am an interior architect and lecturer.
I believe NTC is a trustworthy and inspirational organisation that is saving millions of lives. I am delighted to be a part of NTC, and today I am lucky to have survived the earthquake that rocked Turkey at 4 am, while we slept on the 6th of February, 2023. I using this platform to appeal for help for the victims, particularly the children.
This caused the loss of more than 40,000 people and 109,000 people injured. Many people lost their families and beloved ones. The earthquake has affected 10 cities. Turkey is home to many cultures and ethnicities.
Due to the extreme damage caused, those who have been rescued can no longer live in their homes. They are now staying in tents. Sadly, they remain on the streets until aid and help arrive.
The weather is cold, and many children are desperately seeking warmth and are depressed. We need help. Even as an adult, I’m deeply affected- physically and materially by this disaster in my home city called Adana. I can’t imagine how much worse it is for the children.
Blankets, toys, heaters, winter clothes, and power banks are needed now to help people in Turkey. I believe by uniting we can overcome this disaster. At the end of the day, we are all human regardless of ethnicity, religious beliefs and origin.
We are one!
All proceeds will help the people of Turkey and Syria. Thank you.
Written by Mariam Aziz
