UBalt Community Urged to Help Earthquake Recovery Efforts in Turkey and Syria
February 20, 2023
Contact: Office of Advancement and External Relations
Phone: 410.837.5739
Melis Dearinger, a University of Baltimore student from Turkey, is urging the UBalt community to contribute to recovery efforts following the devastating earthquakes that struck Turkey and Syria on Feb. 6.
"Even though I live in the United States, my whole family and friends are in Turkey. I am so thankful because my family is safe. On the other hand, my heart is deeply broken because a lot of people that I know were affected from these earthquakes," Dearinger said.
The 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Turkey near the Syrian border is being considered the most powerful and deadliest to hit Turkey in more than 80 years. Roughly nine hours later, a 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck, affecting much of the same region. Recent news outlets are reporting the death toll exceeded 40,000 in Turkey and Syria.
On Feb. 20, a 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck the region, even as recovery efforts continue.
"Over 2 million people in Turkey in dire need of assistance as of today, especially in this freezing weather," Dearinger said. "They need essentials such as blankets, clothing, medicine, tents and food."
Dearinger was born and raised in Turkey and graduated from law school there, but came to the United States with a dream of pursuing a master's degree here. She is one of several in the UBalt community, including current students and alumni, from Turkey. Currently, Dearinger is a part-time student working toward her LL.M. in the Law of the United States program and works full-time as a paralegal. She anticipates completing her program in May 2024.
"Although I am unable to help my fellow citizens from far away physically, I believe I can at least raise awareness and contribute to the relief efforts," she said.
Here are some of the organizations that Dearinger recommended for those looking to provide support.
- UNICEF - Turkey/Syria Earthquake
- RedCross UK
- Islamic Relief USA
- Syrian American Medical Society
- Syria Relief and Development
- Syria Forum USA
- MedGlobal
- AKUT (volunteer/non-government organization in Turkey on the ground with search teams and rescue)
- Molham Team (volunteer/non-government organization in Syria with on the ground search and rescue teams)