While the aftermath of this tragic event is still being assessed, we know that thousands of buildings have collapsed and the death toll is rising as powerful and aftershock earthquakes are continuously hitting the region. The region is also affected by extreme weather conditions which presents additional challenges to the survivors and rescue teams. We extend our heartfelt sympathy and condolences to all who have lost loved ones or have been affected by the earthquake.
We have launched the Kahramanmaras Earthquake Emergency Relief Fund and started a fundraising campaign to mobilise our network of supporters based in the UK, who wish to support the survivors. We have been in contact with Support to Life, AKUT, Basic Needs Association (TİDER), Needs Map, and our other local grantees including Kirkayak Kultur, RUMUD, Local Development Association, Women of Ravanda Association, Mimoza Women’s Association, YUKADER.
As Turkey Mozaik Foundation, we find it crucial to support civil society organisations (CSOs) working on the ground to provide urgent relief, but we also know the importance of continuous support for mid to long-term recovery in the areas affected by the earthquake. In January 2020, we launched an Emergency Relief Fund following the earthquake in Elazig on 24 January 2020. Later, in response to the Aegean Sea earthquake on 30 October 2020, we launched the Izmir Earthquake Emergency Relief Fund. We have raised more than GBP 60,000 with the generous contributions of over 700 supporters.
Our funds aimed to support the operational expenses of CSOs working in the field and their activities to meet immediate and longer-term needs. We supported 8 CSOs including Support to Life, AKUT, TİDER, Needs Map, Turkish Psychologists Association, and Izmir Education Cooperative. They conducted needs assessments and field visits, launched a Support Market to ensure access to food, hygiene products and other basic needs, provided psychosocial support to children and adults, and conducted awareness-raising and advocacy activities targeting the decision-makers and the wider public.
With the Kahramanmaras Earthquake Emergency Relief Fund, we will work closely with our local partners in Turkey. Grants will be distributed to carefully selected organisations in multiple cycles targeting first emergency/short-term needs and subsequently medium/longer-term needs for maximum impact.
Thank you for your generous contributions to our campaign. We will keep you informed with updates.
Turkey Mozaik Foundation Team
