PITTSBURGH — The death toll continues to climb after two earthquakes rocked southern Turkey and northern Syria, leaving more than 5,000 people dead. Rescue efforts continue as crews work to find survivors in the rubble after dozens of buildings were leveled.
Members of Pittsburgh’s Turkish community said they feel helpless watching the disaster unfold overseas, so they came up with a way to give back from thousands of miles away. The Turkish Cultural Center is asking for the help of Pittsburghers, teaming up with its sister organization, Embrace Relief, to collect monetary donations for the people of Turkey.
“We are right now in really tough days,” said Benjamin Aysan, community outreach coordinator for the Turkish Cultural Center Pittsburgh. “Some of our friends, relatives are over there….it’s not good right now.”
For Aysan, the heartbreaking images and videos are difficult to watch. The nation’s president declared a State of Emergency, as rescue crews battle the elements, looking for survivors, needing all the help they can get.
“It’s really hard. It’s really hard for everyone. Because of that, there’s no internet right now in the earthquake area. There is no electricity. It’s just so hard in the middle of the winter,” Aysan said.
To donate, visit the Turkish Cultural Center Pittsburgh’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/TCCPenn/.
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