In the early hours of Feb. 6, 2023, an earthquake of 7.8 magnitude struck Turkey and Syria, followed by another 7.5 magnitude earthquake a few hours later. The death toll has now passed 7,000 – and the numbers are expected to rise.
HelpAge is working on the ground in both Turkey and Syria to assess the earthquakes' impact on older people and respond to their distinct needs. Older people are among the most at-risk and disadvantaged groups in times of crisis—and as temperatures drop, it is only more difficult for them to access the emergency shelters, supplies, and services they need.
Through our partners Hope Revival and the Syrian Expatriate Medical Association (SEMA), HelpAge has been providing access to mental health and psychosocial support, health and nutrition programs, and essential items during emergencies.
Your immediate support can help provide older people with:
• Essential items such as ready-to-eat meals and non-food items
• Emergency cash assistance for the most vulnerable families
• Winter items (heating, blankets, etc.), as they have lost their homes and are facing harsh winter conditions
• Psychological support, especially for older women and children
With older people and countless loved ones reportedly still being pulled from the rubble and in desperate need of shelter and safety, we must make sure that the rescue and relief efforts are inclusive of older people and all those who risk being marginalized in the sidelines of the response.
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HelpAge USA is a non-profit that sees a world in which the contributions of older people are recognized, and there is no age limit on the opportunity for a healthy, safe, and secure life.
HelpAge USA champions the dignity and potential of older people around the world. We work with HelpAge Global Network partners in more than 80 countries to provide disaster assistance, facilitate health care, help end discrimination and violence, develop pathways to income security, conduct research, and advocate for the inclusion of older people in policies and programs that typically overlook them.
All contributions will support HelpAge USA’s general purposes and special projects as HelpAge USA determines from time to time. HelpAge USA is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization (EIN/tax ID number: 271071179). Your donations are fully tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law.
