Christian charities are bringing aid and relief to the people of Turkey and Syria after a magnitude 7.8 earthquake devastated the two countries, leaving more than 11,000 people dead and tens of thousands more injured. The earthquake was one of the strongest to hit the region in 100 years. Following the 7.8 magnitude quake was another one at 7.5 magnitude and 120 aftershocks. The destruction has leveled buildings and left thousands upon thousands dead or injured.
According to the Christian Post, the charities have been on the frontlines providing medical aid and assistance as well as getting people water, shelter, and heat. Relief organizations including Samaritan’s Purse, First Hope Association, World Vision, and Send Relief are among those who have responded with humanitarian assistance.
Samaritan’s Purse is preparing to deploy a 52-bed Emergency Field Hospital with about 75 staff members by the weekend to help people suffering from the effects of the earthquake. The hospital includes two emergency operating rooms and a pharmacy. Samaritan’s Purse will also be getting supplies into hard-hit areas by an airlift that will distribute hygiene items and tarps among other resources.
Franklin Graham, President of Samaritan’s Purse, said, “This massive earthquake has devastated Turkey. Thousands of people were killed and hundreds of thousands have been left homeless and are searching for their loved ones. It is cold there and survivors are in shock—they need our help,” adding that “We are responding to meet needs in Jesus’ Name. Please pray for all those who are suffering.”
Families are afraid to stay in their homes if they remain standing, and some are also afraid of staying in multi-floor hospitals that have not yet collapsed, due to the possibility of them crumbling to the ground.
The Christian Post reports that the Middle East Council of Churches is asking the U.S. government to lift its sanctions on Syria arguing that with sanctions in place, the country cannot meet the needs of its suffering people.