06 February 2023

British Red Cross launches Turkey-Syria Earthquake Appeal in response to devastating earthquakes

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The British Red Cross has launched an emergency fundraising appeal in response to two devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria.

Reports are emerging that more than a thousand people have died, with many more injured and stuck under the rubble.  Search and rescue missions are underway but are being hampered due to bad weather, meaning many that have been injured will be at further risk.

Homes have been destroyed, hospitals, bridges and roads have been damaged and power is down. With over 40 aftershocks reported, thousands are in urgent need of help.

Turkish Red Crescent and Syrian Arab Red Crescent teams are on the ground helping their communities and providing urgent humanitarian relief and supporting the rescue efforts.

The Turkish Red Crescent has launched a crisis response operation and mobilised teams in more than ten regions across the country, while the Syrian Arab Red Crescent is delivering lifesaving assistance and support to those in need in the regions of Hama, Aleppo and Lattakia.

The British Red Cross has immediately released £25,000 from its Disaster Fund to support the immediate response and will support this with a full emergency appeal.

Mike Adamson, Chief Executive of the British Red Cross said:

“It is shocking to see the scale of destruction caused by this earthquake – more than a thousand people have been killed and homes, hospitals and roads have been destroyed across the region. The priority right now is rescuing people from the rubble and Red Cross Red Crescent teams are on the ground in Syria and Turkey providing urgent support during these critical hours.

“The British Red Cross is launching an emergency appeal to help get vital aid to those that need it most. Please do give if you are able so we can support those in need.”

The British Red Cross has launched an emergency appeal to support the response. To donate, please go to:

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