Emergency Aid for Earthquake Victims

On Monday, February 6, 2023, earthquakes with magnitudes of 7.3 and 7.8 struck Turkey and parts of Syria. While the area is prone to seismic activity, these may be the most severe in recorded history. As of Thursday evening, over 21,000 are known dead. Many more deaths are likely from the quake damage directly, the resulting homelessness and freezing temperatures.

Members of the Turkish community in the Dallas area are assisting with donations of goods and
personnel. One planeload has already been delivered to the area. The Dialogue Institute, a group of Turkish Americans well known within the interfaith community, have organized fundraising and donation efforts. A fundraising dinner happens Saturday evening, February 11, at 1416 E. Collins Blvd in Richardson. Tickets can be purchased here. This 501(c)3 can receive monetary donations via Zelle at this email: [email protected].

The Ismaili Muslim Jamatkhanas of Plano and Mid-Cities are receiving donations at their locations (2500 Dickerson Pkwy, Carrollton 75006 and/or 700 E Harwood Rd, Euless 76039) between 11 am and 2 pm also this Saturday, February 11. The list of needs is specific. Clothing (for winter temperatures) must be new. Canned vegetables, non-perishable food, ready-to-eat meals, baby food, formula, and diapers are needed. Hygiene items (including feminine products) and shelter equipment must also be new.

Mark Romney, a Dallas area leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said that he knows members of these communities well. They have brought Iftar dinners, breaking their fast during Ramadan, to his congregations in the southern Dallas area for several years. He and others in the Church have worked with members of the Ismaili Jamatkhanas on humanitarian efforts as well. Almas Muscatwalla is known throughout the metroplex for her tireless service. “We love them,” Romney explained. “This devastating disaster has affected their families and friends directly.” He hopes that the D/FW area can show that love with assistance in this time of need.

More ways to help:

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Humanitarian Aid Fund. To read about how the Church of Jesus Christ is helping earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria, click HERE.

To support the Turkish American Community in Dallas, go to the Virtual Giving Machine and click on the Raindrop Dallas icon. Raindrop Dallas, also known as Raindrop Foundation Dallas, is a non-profit 501(c)(3), educational, charitable, social and cultural organization founded by Turkish-Americans in Dallas in 2005. The Raindrop of Dallas (RD) aims to cultivate friendship and promote understanding of diverse cultures through its unique services to the community.