EarthQuake Relief for Syria & Turkiye

In the aftermath of two separate earthquakes in Turkiye and Syria, the capacity to respond to this natural disaster is being taxed beyond ordinary limits.  
This past Tuesday, the Turkish Ambassador to the United States, outlined the extent of the devastation, critical needs of the population affected, and made an appeal for help. He shared two separate spreadsheets outlining things needed immediately. Locally, representatives of the Council met with the Consul General in Chicago to gain first-hand perspective of what is needed and to learn how we, as a community, can help.

1. Cash Donations. Please refer to the list of relief agencies listed in this email.
2. In-Kind Donations.The two spreadsheets attached outline the medications, medical equipment, physical goods and personal items needed.  Winter clothing is requested, and packaged clothing is preferred. Packaged clothing saves time needed to prepare the clothing for shipment.
3. Volunteers. Additional volunteers will be needed to assist in the preparation of the goods and equipment for shipment.

Next Steps:
The Council is working with several organizations to help provide critical assistance in Syria and Turkiye. The Consul General’s office is currently taking inventory of donations and guidance to donors will follow by Monday.  In the meantime, Donations are being accepted at the Consulate General’s office (455 N Cityfront Plaza Drive, Suite 2900, Chicago, IL), IQRA Foundation, 7450 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL, and TACA, 3845 N. Harlem Ave., Chicago, IL. The Council is coordinating a time for the Consul General to speak to our local relief agencies and community leaders to receive a further update on this crisis.   

We request our community members to make announcement at their local mosques during Jummah prayer to make dua and donate to the affected families.