The aftermath of the earthquakes that struck Turkey on February 6, 2023, will not cast a shadow over Ramadan this year, reassured Fatma Meriç Yılmaz, the leader of the Turkish Red Crescent (Kızılay), from a logistics center in Hatay province. She emphasized that amidst the challenges, there is hope on the horizon. 
Addressing reporters, Yılmaz highlighted the organization's dual focus for this year's Ramadan campaign: supporting those in the Gaza Strip facing bombardment and aiding the 11 southeastern provinces of Turkeyravaged by the devastating earthquakes. The tremors claimed over 53,000 lives and left millions displaced.
Yılmaz expressed grave concern for Gaza's plight, where famine looms large. Turkey's commitment to stand by Palestine during Ramadan was underscored by the dispatch of the Marin, the largest aid shipment yet, carrying essential supplies to alleviate the suffering. Meanwhile, in Turkey, the challenges persist in the earthquake-stricken regions.
While acknowledging progress in providing permanent residences to survivors, Yılmaz stressed the ongoing nature of the recovery process. Container cities housing thousands bear testament to the disruption caused by the earthquakes, but efforts toward reconstruction and normalization are underway, particularly in Antakya.
The Turkish Red Crescent, in collaboration with various government bodies and international partners, has been tirelessly working to provide aid and shelter across the affected provinces. Despite the adversities, volunteers and personnel persevere, living in temporary accommodations but unwavering in their commitment to assist.
Yılmaz expressed the overarching message of the campaign: solidarity and support. The aim is to ensure that victims know they are not forgotten, especially during Ramadan, a time of reflection and community. The distribution of essential items from the Kızılay storehouse signifies the organization's dedication to meeting the needs of those affected.
Beyond the earthquake zone, Kızılay's Ramadan campaign extends nationwide, with plans to reach 8.8 million people domestically and abroad, backed by a substantial aid fund. The provision of food packs, financial assistance, and a shift towards cash-oriented aid models reflects a broader strategy aimed at empowering recipients and fostering self-sufficiency.
As the organization prepares for a donation drive to bolster blood stocks during the summer months, Yılmaz reiterated the commitment to supporting communities in need, ensuring a sustainable path towards recovery and resilience.
Addressing reporters, Yılmaz highlighted the organization's dual focus for this year's Ramadan campaign: supporting those in the Gaza Strip facing bombardment and aiding the 11 southeastern provinces of Turkeyravaged by the devastating earthquakes. The tremors claimed over 53,000 lives and left millions displaced.
Yılmaz expressed grave concern for Gaza's plight, where famine looms large. Turkey's commitment to stand by Palestine during Ramadan was underscored by the dispatch of the Marin, the largest aid shipment yet, carrying essential supplies to alleviate the suffering. Meanwhile, in Turkey, the challenges persist in the earthquake-stricken regions.
While acknowledging progress in providing permanent residences to survivors, Yılmaz stressed the ongoing nature of the recovery process. Container cities housing thousands bear testament to the disruption caused by the earthquakes, but efforts toward reconstruction and normalization are underway, particularly in Antakya.
The Turkish Red Crescent, in collaboration with various government bodies and international partners, has been tirelessly working to provide aid and shelter across the affected provinces. Despite the adversities, volunteers and personnel persevere, living in temporary accommodations but unwavering in their commitment to assist.
Yılmaz expressed the overarching message of the campaign: solidarity and support. The aim is to ensure that victims know they are not forgotten, especially during Ramadan, a time of reflection and community. The distribution of essential items from the Kızılay storehouse signifies the organization's dedication to meeting the needs of those affected.
Beyond the earthquake zone, Kızılay's Ramadan campaign extends nationwide, with plans to reach 8.8 million people domestically and abroad, backed by a substantial aid fund. The provision of food packs, financial assistance, and a shift towards cash-oriented aid models reflects a broader strategy aimed at empowering recipients and fostering self-sufficiency.
As the organization prepares for a donation drive to bolster blood stocks during the summer months, Yılmaz reiterated the commitment to supporting communities in need, ensuring a sustainable path towards recovery and resilience.