ACT members began responding to humanitarian needs shortly after the 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck in the early hours of February 6 near the border between Turkey and Syria.  Over 1800 have been killed and thousands more injured, with those numbers expected to rise as work is undertaken to rescue survivors trapped under rubble.

As the scale of the disaster continues to be discovered, ACT members are checking in with their own staff teams, conducting rapid needs assessments, and already working to provide life-saving supplies to impacted people.

ACT member  The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch and All the East- Department of Ecumenical Relations and Development (GOPA-DERD) is providing food, winterization (blankets and mattresses) and medical aid in affected communities in Aleppo, Hama, Latakia.

The Middle East Council of Churches, also an ACT member, posted a statement today stating that “…all the Churches in the Middle East have put their resources at the disposal of the affected and displaced people due to the earthquake, since the first moments of the disaster…” and that “The Churches in the Middle East, which always supports their people, will spare no effort in doing all they can to relieve their pain and lead them towards prosperity and progress.”

Plans are underway from other ACT members to supply winterization materials, ambulances, and other needed supplies as the extent of the need is known.

ACT members will continue to respond to this disaster.  To support ACT’s work, please contact Niall O’Rourke, head of humanitarian affairs and George Majaj, humanitarian programme advisor for MENA.