Here's how Canadians can help those impacted by the Turkey-Syria earthquake
A 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck on Monday has left Turkey and Syria in shambles and in need of aid.
At least 6,326 have died across both countries as of Tuesday afternoon, reported CNN, and that number is only expected to climb.
The quake, which was centred in the southeastern town of Pazarcik in the Kahramanmaras Province near the Syrian border, occurred on Monday at 4:17 am local time, according to Al Jazeera.
Turks and Syrians woke up to collapsed buildings, posting shocking videos of toppling towers and people running for safety online.
Dozens of aftershocks were reported and tremors were also felt in Lebanon and Cyprus.
While local relief organizations like the Syrian Red Crescent and the Turkish Red Crescent have mobilized hundreds of staff and volunteers to help impacted residents, Canada has also announced its plans to provide aid to the countries.
The #response is continued by @SYRedCrescent in #Syrian cities, #Lattakia and #Aleppo and #Hama and #Tartous, affected the most by the #earthquake, pulling and transporting 152 cases, 26 fatalities among them.#syriaearthquake #Syria pic.twitter.com/1axjXm05aB
— Syrian Red Crescent (@SYRedCrescent) February 6, 2023
“After yesterday’s devastating earthquakes, we’re providing $10 million in immediate aid to the people of Türkiye and Syria – and we’ll continue to provide support as the situation evolves,” tweeted Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Tuesday. “Our partners are already distributing food, emergency fuel, and shelter items.”
After yesterday’s devastating earthquakes, we’re providing $10 million in immediate aid to the people of Türkiye and Syria – and we’ll continue to provide support as the situation evolves. Our partners are already distributing food, emergency fuel, and shelter items.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) February 7, 2023
But what can you do as an individual to help those impacted by the earthquakes?
Here are some ways Canadians can contribute to aid the citizens of Turkey and Syria.
Text Telus
The company is waiving long-distance and roaming charges including calls to and from Turkey and Syria.
You can also text DONATE to 41010 to give $20 to the Telus Friendly Future Foundation in support of earthquake relief.
Our hearts are with those affected by the tragic earthquakes in Syria and Turkey. pic.twitter.com/Etnkj2nEFQ
— TELUS (@TELUS) February 6, 2023
Order a pizza
Vancouver pizza joint Pizza Garden will donate $1 towards earthquake relief efforts for every order placed this week. They will also match every additional dollar donated.