Mayor’s Statement on Earthquakes in Turkey and Syria

As we are watching the heartbreaking scenes of destruction and devastation unfold in Turkey, Syria, and other affected areas, we hope for an expansive and successful search and rescue that may reunite family and friends with their loved ones and get more lives to safety. We also call on the U.S. government to send more aid and resources so that the countries’ recovery efforts may begin.

Here at home, we are thinking of those with ties to the region who may be affected by this tragedy. We urge anyone in need to consider contacting a crisis helpline to speak to volunteers trained to listen and provide support. The Samaritans statewide 24/7 phone or chat crisis line can take calls in up to 240 different languages. They can be reached by calling or texting just three numbers: 988. Calls are free, confidential, and anonymous.

For those who are able to donate, the following organizations are taking action to deliver aid to the affected areas: 

• International Rescue Committee 
• Oxfam 

With sympathy and solidarity,

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne