Facing one of the largest earthquake disasters in the history of the Republic, all citizens in Turkey have mobilized to help. The earthquake centered in Kahramanmaraş caused widespread destruction across 10 provinces. With casualties and property losses counted in the thousands, relief efforts are critically important.
The quake produced severe damage in Kahramanmaraş, Hatay, Adana, Şanlıurfa, Gaziantep, Kilis, Osmaniye, Diyarbakır, Adıyaman and Malatya. In the aftermath, supporting trusted organizations—especially AFAD and other active civil society groups—is essential to coordinate aid effectively.
WHERE SHOULD EARTHQUAKE AID BE SENT?
It is vital that assistance intended for those affected and measures to mitigate the earthquake’s impact be routed through reliable institutions. Uncoordinated or ill-considered aid can create chaos, so donations and assistance should be organized carefully and responsibly.
The Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), the Turkish Red Crescent (Türk Kızılay) and the Anadolu People and Peace Platform (AHBAP) are among the organizations most active in the affected areas. These institutions, which require substantial resources, accept donations by SMS and other secure channels.
WHAT ITEMS SHOULD BE SENT IN EARTHQUAKE RELIEF?
Sending the right items to earthquake zones can be lifesaving. Rather than donating used items that may be unsuitable, it is often more effective to provide complete relief packages or monetary donations coordinated with official organizations. Any personal deliveries should be organized through trustworthy institutions to ensure they reach those in need.
The following items are particularly important for relief efforts in affected areas:
- Tents
- Sleeping bags
- Blankets
- Gloves – Beanies – Scarves
- Winter coats
- Boots
- Clean clothing
- Hygiene products (sanitary pads, diapers, toilet paper, etc.)
- Infant formula – Baby bottles
- Towels
- Liquid soap
- Canned foods
- Batteries (e.g., AA)
- Flashlights
- Additional blankets and similar items
HOW TO DONATE TO AFAD EARTHQUAKE RELIEF
AFAD plays a leading role in search and rescue operations and is one of the organizations most in need of support on the ground. You can help AFAD’s relief work to heal the wounds of the earthquake zone. To support the campaign via SMS, send the word “DEPREM” to 1866. The SMS donation amount is set at 20 TL. You can also support other trusted organizations through their official donation channels.
