On Monday, Feb. 6, a magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck at the heart of Syria and Turkey. The quake is one of the strongest to hit the region in over 100 years. Thousands of buildings collapsed, more than 100 aftershocks have plagued the countries, and there have been over 12,000 reported deaths. The frigid temperatures endanger survivors now without homes and have complicated rescue missions.
While a massive earthquake across the globe that’s toppled lives overnight could feel like it’s too far away for one college student like you to make a difference, the internet has allowed people from anywhere to virtually come together and chip in to support the affected people at a time like this.
Here are three ways you can help earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria as a college student.
- Donate.
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Donating online to The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies can contribute to the immediate cash assistance program. The organization has pulled from its Disaster Response Emergency Fund to provide relief in both countries, and is asking for donations to keep their fund active and capable of giving significant support. There are plenty of other organizations that have stepped up as well, like Convoy of Hope and Doctors Without Borders, giving just a few bucks to them instead of getting a Starbucks can help more than you think.
- Write to legislators.
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While an individual donation can go a long way, the government has deeper pockets. Wales, Australia and the U.K. contributed government funds to help Turkey and Syria recover. The United States might be further away, but that doesn’t mean we can’t give to the global community, too. Google your state representative and shoot them an email asking them to support President Joe Biden’s donations to Turkey and Syria — or better yet, send a handwritten letter.
- Stay informed.
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Like with most crises, knowing what’s happening is of the utmost importance. How else could we know that after a massive shaker hit, that then over 100 aftershocks also ran through the countries? Who would think to send money for coats and gloves if we didn’t know that rescuers and survivors were freezing? Watch the news. Follow #turkeyearthquake and #syriaearthquake on Instagram. Turn on notifications for Reuters as they post about recovery efforts. Talk to your friends. Remember that you can make a difference.