Supporting earthquake survivors and recovery in Syria and Turkey

The magnitude 7.8 earthquake, and several massive aftershocks, that struck Turkey and Syria last week unleashed devastation on a scale that is difficult to put into words. While the people of Turkey and Syria have shown immense strength in their own recovery efforts, they desperately need more support from the global community.

"We grieve for the thousands of people who have lost their loved ones, homes and livelihoods, and we extend our deepest sympathies to everyone impacted," said WWU President Sabah Randhawa. "Now is the time for those of us looking for ways to actively support survivors and recovery in Turkey and Syria to take action in whatever way we are able."

Western faculty and staff can consider making one-time gifts or regular payroll deductions through the Washington State Combined Fund Drive's Disaster Relief Center, which directly connects to the donation portals for multiple disaster relief and humanitarian organizations taking an active part in recovery and critical aid.

Western students and community are also welcome to refer to the list of vetted global organizations to whom they can consider contributing time, money, or simply awareness and visibility via personal and social media networks. No act of support is too large or too small.