On February 6th, 2023, a 7.8-magnitude earthquake caused widespread damage across Turkey and northern Syria. More than 46,000 people have been confirmed killed, and as of February 20th, 2023, another 6.4-magnitude earthquake, making an already devastated area worse with the death toll expected to rise drastically. With the region already an epicenter of a brutal civil war and the home of millions of displaced refugees, these people need help more than ever. I'm raising money to benefit Direct Relief, and any donation will help make an impact. To help meet the urgent needs on the ground, Direct Relief is deploying medical supplies from its facilities in the U.S. and Europe for Turkey and Syria. More than 22 tons of medical aid has been staged or is being shipped for Turkey and Syria since the earthquake began.
My name is Mahmoud Ashrifeh. I’m from Darien, CT and I go to Syracuse University as an Architect student. I am not one to usually do something like this, but as a Syrian-American, and with the support of my family and friends, this event has affected me personally. I decided that I should be involved in any way I can. To raise awareness for this cause, I will run the Syracuse Half Marathon on April 16th, 2023, to raise money for those in need, with a goal of $10,000. I hope everyone can donate or at least spread awareness and share with your parents, family, and friends about the region's drastic situation. Just because it is not on the news anymore, it does not mean it is over. People still need help. Thank you in advance for your contribution, which means so much to me.
More information about Direct Relief: Direct Relief improves the health and lives of people affected by poverty and emergencies by equipping healthcare facilities in resource-poor areas with medicines and supplies. Direct Relief provides support in 100+ countries and all 50 U.S. states, both on an ongoing basis and during emergencies. Currently, Direct Relief is responding to the earthquake in Turkey/Syria, the Ukraine crisis, and ongoing severe weather throughout the U.S.