Lions help directly on site in the Turkish earthquake region

The earthquake on Monday morning, Feb. 6-23, and the aftershocks are already among the worst natural disasters of the last hundred years. Currently, the media report more than 40,000 deaths, over 80,000 injured and thousands still missing.

Freezing temperatures not only complicate rescue efforts, but also threaten survival after survival.

Basel counts a large community from the most devastated province, where entire families were wiped out. The consternation and sympathy is correspondingly great.

The Lions Club Basel City is already active through one of its members via Istanbul:

The first truck with the most important items set off for the disaster area two days after the quakes. The approximately 1,000 km from Instanbul to Adana in the south of the affected area can normally be completed in 12 hours, but the earthquakes have extended the journey accordingly and will take around 2 days.

The Lions and Leos Switzerland - Liechtenstein can help directly in the country. Because in contrast to various relief transports that were stopped at the Turkish border, this Lions aid takes place within the Turkish national borders.

The following material is urgently needed and has also been purchased with the first truck:

• Comforters
• Bed linen
• Hygiene products for women
• Mattresses
• Cushion
• Water
• Ceilings
• Towels (like bath towels and hand towels)

250 containers were also purchased, which are equipped in Istanbul and brought to the affected region. They provide shelter for 6 people and, in addition to bunk beds, are equipped with a small kitchen and shower/WC. The excellent contacts with a logistics company ensure the transport on trucks. These containers will be used in Hatay, one of the most affected cities.

A container costs 48,000 Turkish Lira, the equivalent of CHF 2,250 net and habitable equipped to CHF 3,000.

Furthermore, 5 food trucks were rented in Adana, which are already in use and help 3 times a day with 2'000 warm meals in the different villages. There is a cooperation with a local restaurant.

The Lions Club Basel City has opened a special account at the Basler Kantonalbank:

• Account name: "Relief Fund
• IBAN CH6200769438140502003
• Basellandschaftliche Kantonalbank, Barfüsserplatz 3, 4051 Basel

For example, the 267 Lions and 16 Leo Clubs Switzerland - Liechtenstein could donate containers of CHF 3,000 each.
Of course, much smaller amounts are also very welcome. Every franc can help to save lives.

As already mentioned in an earlier news, Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) is also in action and has mobilized funds, including a major disaster grant of US$200,000, to enable Lions in Turkey and other affected areas to help with reconstruction efforts. Here is the direct link to the LCIF donation page: Make a Donation | Lions Clubs International