Early media reports that there were over 20,000 causalities after an earthquake in Türkiye. More are expected to be found, in addition to the widespread damage to buildings and infrastructure. Severe aftershocks are making things worse. All this is exacerbated by bitter winter conditions.
The world is mobilizing to help the people of Türkiye, you can too.
Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Agency called for international help.
Here are some suggestions.
ATAA, representing over 60 local chapters and 500,000 Turkish Americans throughout the United States, serves locally and nationwide to develop an informed and empowered Turkish American community, and to support strong U.S.-Turkish relations. They have recommendations for earthquake aid.
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies are requesting donations for its Disaster Response Emergency Fund so it can send “immediate cash assistance.”
The very best option is to donate directly to the Turkish Red Crescent.
As always, do due diligence before you give. The NYT offers good advice.
Before you make a donation, especially to a lesser-known organization, you should do some research to make sure it is reputable. Sites like Charity Navigator and Guidestar grade nonprofits based on transparency and effectiveness. The Internal Revenue Service also allows you to search its database to find out whether an organization is eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions.
And if you suspect an organization or individual of committing fraud, you can report it to the National Center for Disaster Fraud, part of the Justice Department.
Coments