MSP urges Highlanders to donate after Syria–Türkiye earthquake death toll rises to 30,000
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
MSP Maree Todd is urging people to donate emergency relief charity Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC), as the Türkiye–Syria earthquake death toll rises to 30,000. The DEC brings together 15 leading UK aid charities at times of crisis overseas.
Following the devastating earthquakes that hit southern Türkey and north–west Syria on February 6, people across Scotland people have come together to support those affected by the crisis. Most recent numbers show that the earthquakes have killed over 30,000 people, and injured many, and has left hundred of thousands homeless in freezing winter conditions.
Over the last week in Scotland, fundraising has been held at sports events, in high streets, and in workplaces for the appeal to get life–saving supplies to an estimated 17 million people in Turkey and Syria. More than £5.5 million was raised in Scotland in the first three days of the DEC's Appeal in response to the earthquakes.
RELATED: Ross-shire rallies to aid of earthquake victims
The Scottish Government have also donated £500,000 in emergency funding to the DEC to support humanitarian aid efforts.
Caithness, Sutherland and Ross MSP Maree Todd said: “Right now, cash is needed to support DEC member charities, this enables them to purchase relief items in bulk from countries in the affected region. This is quicker and cheaper and helps to stimulate the local economy.
“If you are in the position to donate, please consider giving to the DEC who are among the first responders on the ground, working with locally–led relief efforts. My thoughts and sympathies are with everyone impacted by this disaster.”
Sally Foster Fulton of Christian Aid said: “The wonderful response that we have seen across the country show real compassion and generosity from the Scottish public, especially during the cost–of–living crisis. We are so grateful for every single donation, however large or small. The images we have all seen and heard from Turkey and Syria have been profoundly shocking but the desire to help has shone through.”
“With these sums of money, our 15 member charities and their local partners can accelerate their efforts to deliver vital shelter in freezing temperatures as well as reach so many more people with vital medical supplies, food and clean water. With this support we are determined to help those most affected in the days, weeks and months ahead.”
If you can, ways to donate to the DEC Türkiye–Syria Earthquake appeal are:
Online: www.dec.org.uk
Phone: 0370 60 60 610
Text to give/SMS: text SUPPORT to 70787 to donate £10.
Donate over the counter at any high street bank or post office, or send a cheque by post to: DEC Türkiye–Syria Earthquake Appeal, PO Box 999, London EC3A 3AA.
