Turkey & Syria Earthquake Emergency Response

On February 6th and 7th, 2023, two powerful earthquakes struck south-eastern Türkiye and northern Syria, causing widespread devastation. The catastrophic events resulted in over 59,000 fatalities and left more than 125,000 people injured. In response, Caritas launched an immediate emergency response and continues to provide long-term support to the affected communities.

Emergency Response Efforts
Following the earthquakes, Caritas acted promptly to deliver immediate assistance to the affected populations in Syria and Türkiye. This included the distribution of food, hygiene kits, and clean drinking water. For those whose homes had collapsed, Caritas provided emergency shelters, clothing, blankets, and mattresses. Medical and psychological first aid were crucial components of the response, with medications and cash assistance helping people to manage their basic needs in the initial aftermath.

One of the families receiving support was the Al-Hassan family (name changed to protect the family’s privacy)
In the immediate aftermath of the devastating earthquakes, the Al-Hassan family found themselves among the many victims whose lives were upended. Their home in Aleppo was reduced to rubble, leaving them without shelter, food, or basic necessities. Caritas swiftly intervened, providing them with food, hygiene kits, and drinking water. As their house collapsed, Caritas took them into one of the emergency shelters, where they also received clothing. Through Caritas’ medical and psychological first aid, and the distribution of essential medications, the Al-Hassan family began their journey towards recovery. Additionally, cash assistance was provided to help them meet their immediate needs, offering a lifeline during this challenging period.

Rehabilitation and Reconstruction
In the mid-term phase, Caritas continued to support the rehabilitation of damaged homes, including cash-support for repairs. Efforts extended to the repair of schools and the construction and renovation of sanitation facilities. To help people cope with the winter months, Caritas provided essential items such as stoves, electric heaters, winter clothing, and blankets.

Long-term Assistance
To aid in long-term recovery, Caritas is focused on helping people rebuild their lives. This includes support for entrepreneurs, farmers, and women in re-establishing their livelihoods. Educational initiatives are organized to help individuals catch up on missed school material, and literacy courses are offered for illiterate women.

2024-2025 Planned Interventions and Support Measures:

• 1,850 additional cash payments will be distributed for essential needs, including repair works on personal homes or business buildings.
• 6,000 individuals will participate in psychosocial and protection measures.
• Over 800 students will engage in educational initiatives such as tutoring and extracurricular activities.
• 250 entrepreneurs, farmers, and livestock keepers will receive support through business training, mentoring, and financial assistance, enabling them to resume their businesses and establish a stable livelihood. This support indirectly benefits employees and their families as well.
• 6,560 individuals will receive water and sanitation services.
• 54 individuals will receive medical support.
• 20 family homes will undergo renovations.

Caritas remains committed to providing comprehensive support to those affected by the earthquakes, helping them not only to survive the immediate aftermath but also to rebuild their lives and communities in the long term. The resilience and recovery of families are at the heart of Caritas' mission, demonstrating the enduring impact of humanitarian aid in times of crisis.

Links:

• Caritas Austria response in Syria & Turkiye (GER)
• General information of Caritas Austria support in Syria
• Short Video of a Syrian family receiving support (GER)