Medi Response and Gift of the Givers arrived in Turkey this afternoon to offer aid and support in rescue efforts throughout the country.
Turkey (08 February 2023) – South African medical rescue team Medi Response has arrived in Turkey to help aid in search and rescue, and support the efforts being made in areas affected by the recent 7.8 magnitude earthquake.
The 7.8 magnitude earthquake shook Turkey and neighbouring Syria on the 6th of February 2023, leaving total devastation in its wake. At the time of writing this, the death toll stands at just under 10,000. The quake has seen the world’s powers rally to support both countries through this disaster.
South Africa’s Gift of the Givers has teams on the ground and now, in collaboration with Medi Response and several other organisations, will see more support and aid arrive in Turkey.
Medi Response was placed on standby on the 7th of February and has since got the go-ahead to send teams across to assist. The teams are now in Turkey, waiting to be sent to various disaster areas.
“Turkey Rescue mission update!
Our search and rescue members, under the banner of the Gift of the Givers and alongside various other search and rescue members, have arrived safely in Turkey.
The South African contingent have met with various international search and rescue teams, as the teams await internal flights to affected areas.
It is currently snowing with sub-zero temperatures. Good luck to all members from all units and countries.” – Medi Response
Turkish Airways sponsored the tickets and cargo space needed for Medi Response and Gift of the Givers to get to the country.
“We express our deep appreciation for this generous support and for the facilitation of our journey to Turkey. The Turkish flag was presented to our team as a symbol of gratitude.” – Gift of the Givers
If you would like to support the people of Syria and Turkey, you can do so by supporting Gift of the Givers here or donating via BackaBuddy here.
You can also stay up to date on the team’s work within the two countries by following Gift of the Givers on Facebook.
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