People around the world are coming together to send aid to the Middle East in the wake of a devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake that hit parts of Turkey and Syria early Monday, Feb. 6. The reported death toll has risen to 20,000 people across both countries. A number of local, national and international organizations are working around the clock to raise funds and send much-needed supplies.
Between fundraising efforts and donation drop-offs, here are ways you can help Turkey-Syria earthquake victims from Miami:
1. Donate to Doral-based Global Empowerment Mission
The 501(c)(3) organization has committed an initial $10,000,000 in donated supplies and currently has a team on the ground in Turkey. In addition to monetary donations, GEM will accept medical kits, food, clothing, blankets and other life-saving goods.
Its Doral headquarters (1850 NW 84th Ave STE 100, Doral, FL 33126) will be collecting supplies from counties all throughout South Florida for the next 60 days. The supplies will be shipped by Turkish Airlines to areas of need by Turkey’s disaster agency AFAD, according to their website.
2. Donate to the Greater Miami Jewish Federation
The non-profit organization has established an Emergency Relief Fund, and as always, will absorb all administrative costs so that 100% of funds collected go directly to those impacted by the devastation. Donation checks with the notation “Turkey-Syria Earthquakes Emergency Relief Fund” can also be mailed payable to Greater Miami Jewish Federation, 4200 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida 33137.
3. Donate to local Turkish eatery, El Turco
Those behind the Upper Buena Vista restaurant, El Turco Turkish Food, have called on patrons and Miamians to donate baby diapers, baby formula, children’s winter clothes, blankets, gloves, socks, boots, sweaters, trousers and non-perishable foods/canned foods. Items must be new or in good condition.
Donations will be collected through Saturday, February 11, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The drop-off location will not be at the restaurant, but rather at 6010 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami FL 33137.
4. Support Turkish American National Steering Committee/Turkish American Arts Society Of New York’s fundraiser
The Turkish Consulate General in Miami has shared this GoFundMe powered by the Turkish American National Steering Committee and TAASNY on its Facebook page. In donating, you can help support those affected by the devastation.
5. Make a donation to trusted international organizations
There are countless of international organizations currently accepting monetary donations to help relief workers and victims in Turkey and Syria. Here are reputable ones you can look into: