After the devasting earthquake in the early morning of February 6 that struck Syria and Turkey, the situation remains dire. The death toll has surpassed 11,000, with many, many more injured. The region copes with severe weather and freezing temperatures, a lack of electricity and medical care. The Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) in Syria reports that the situation there is especially grim, after more than a decade of civil war. The burdens of war and a refugee crisis could increase deaths by thousands.
After it was deemed safe, the Jesuits in Aziziyé, Syria opened their building to people looking for shelter. JRS is leading the Jesuit response in that country. Irish Jesuit Fr Tony O’Riordan said, “I am [leading the] JRS needs assessment and early response. Sustaining life and health is our immediate priority, and we will seek to reopen our health clinics once buildings are cleared by engineers later today. and we will continue to ramp up our support of basic protection again the cold and elements for people unable to return home. Helping people remain resilient mentally will be a second priority.” They have already launched an appeal for donations for relief. For those who are looking for a concrete way to contribute to relief efforts, you might consider JRS and their efforts in Syria. Thank you.