Earthquake appeal: Families in Syria describe "a pure feeling of fear"
Published on 17 February 2023 12:01 AM
"A pure feeling of fear. The challenge we faced was finding shelter..." Abu Ahmed, 54, Syria
Following two major earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, the Disasters Emergency Committee and member agencies including Age International have launched a Turkey and Syria Earthquake Appeal to help those affected stay safe, warm and healthy.
At the time of writing, over 42,000 people have lost their lives, a number which is due to rise. Survivors still urgently need medical assistance, shelter, clean water, food and protection from the cold.
In this video, Abu Ahmed recounts his family's experience of the devastating earthquake that shook his home in Syria, including the fear and terror felt during the aftershocks and the tough living conditions they now face.
The earthquakes struck just as winter weather began worsening in the region, with intense cold and heavy snow increasing the risk to survivors.
We must act urgently to provide shelter, warmth, food, water and medical assistance suitable for older people. Please donate now and help us save lives.
Age International is urgently working with HelpAge and local partners in Syria and Türkiye to provide vital aid to older people. This includes food, drinking water, blankets and tents. Our partner Syrian Expatriate Medical Association (SEMA) has been working in Syria to support older people and their families, including Abu Ahmed. In the immediate period after the earthquake, they distributed drinking water and ready-to-eat food packages to those affected in Jindires, Aleppo and in Kafar Loucine, Idlib. They also run three hospitals in different cities in Syria, which are currently at full capacity.
In Jindires, SEMA has so far:
- distributed 2,000 packages of bread for 1,000 families
- distributed 1,000 boxes of water for 500 families
- established a camp containing 51 tents, for 51 families
- distributed two sponges, one mat, 50 litres of diesel, and two blankets to each family
- distributed 50 food baskets to 50 families
- established a mobile clinic with a doctor, midwife, nurse, data entry assistant and driver, and are working to establish an additional five
- carried out child protection activities
- a shelter centre for 48 families
- clean drinking water and ready-to-eat food baskets for the 48 families
- heaters and fuel for heating in the shelter centre
We must act urgently to provide more shelter, warmth, food, water and medical assistance suitable for older people. Please donate now and help us save lives.
Video filmed by TrendX / HelpAge International and edited by Age International
DEC Middle East Humanitarian Appeal
Millions of people have been affected by growing conflict in the Middle East. People across Gaza, Lebanon and the wider region are in urgent need of support.