PBFWR Aiding
Earthquake Victims

A massive earthquake in Turkey, on Tuesday, Aug. 17, has injured more than 40,000 people. The death toll has exceeded 14,000 and is expected to rise as thousands of others are believed to be buried under collapsed buildings. A spokesman for the United Nations has said the final death toll could reach 40,000.

The earthquake left some 200,000 people homeless and made scores of children orphans.

The Episcopal Church, through the Presiding Bishop’s Fund for World Relief (PBFWR), is responding to the tragedy of the earthquake in Turkey by providing monetary assistance and by working with our ecumenical partners in the region.

As soon as feasible, the Fund will be involved in rehabilitation and development efforts as well. Details will follow in the weeks and months ahead.
“The scope of the tragedy is nearly incomprehensible,” Sandra Swan, Executive Director said, “but in faith we extend our support with that of others in compassionate response to the immediate and continuing needs of the people of Turkey.”

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