Ways you can help victims of the Iran-Iraq earthquake
Over the weekend, a devastating earthquake rocked the Iran-Iraq border. BBC describes it as “the deadliest in the world this year,” with more than 400 people left dead and thousands injured. Major news outlets are reporting that the Iran-Iraq earthquake was a 7.3 magnitude. According to NBC News, an area known as the Kermanshah province suffered the most destruction. The impact, however, was “felt as far west as the Mediterranean coast.”
As you read news reporting on the earthquake, you may feel powerless, but there are actually quite a few things you can do to help the victims of the Iran-Iraq earthquake. Thanks to the World Wide Web, you can send donations and raise awareness — wherever you happen to live.
A 7.3 magnitude earthquake has struck the Iran-Iraq border, killing over 400 and injuring nearly 7,000 pic.twitter.com/IQq91Tkdgy
— The Telegraph (@Telegraph) November 13, 2017
Of course, it’s important to do your research as you determine which organizations are trustworthy. In the meantime, we’ve done some of the work for you and have rounded up a few ways you can provide aid if you feel so moved.
Donate to Action Against Hunger.
Our team in #Iraq heading to #Halabja to assess the needs of the affected communities after 7.3 magnitude #earthquake hit last night. 🇮🇶 pic.twitter.com/vVZdr9IL2J
— Action Against Hunger – Middle East (@ACF_MiddleEast) November 13, 2017
Action Against Hunger is a humanitarian organization that works to combat hunger and malnourishment in approximately 50 countries. According to Al Jazeera, the nonprofit has deployed workers “to the epicentre of the quake near Halabjah” to help people who are lacking food in the aftermath. You can donate to their efforts and read more about their programming on the Action Against Hunger website.
Read (and share) reliable news articles about the crisis.
Sure, it’s less tangible than spending cold hard cash. But seeking out reliable news reports is almost as vital. Staying informed and spreading accurate information is a necessary part of providing aid — it can help you better understand which organizations need your money the most, and allow you to confidently educate people you know on the crisis.
Donate to the International Committee of the Red Cross.
Earthquake in Iran and Iraq: Red Crescent teams providing rescue and first aid as picture of devastation continues to emerge https://t.co/NhvChKxgXU pic.twitter.com/8B8BLpr5vl
— الهلال الاحمر العراقي (@iraqircs) November 13, 2017
The Red Cross is currently very active in the impacted region — Al Jazeera and Bustle respectively report that the Iranian Red Crescent Society and The Turkish Red Crescent are both sending supplies. Support their efforts by donating to the overarching international arm of the Red Cross. The ICRC also has an ongoing campaign to help the people of Mosul.
Volunteer with the International Rescue Committee.
The International Rescue Committee works with at-risk populations in the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe, and the United States. As of press time, the IRC website doesn’t list dedicated initiatives for earthquake victims. But the organization does provide countless services in Iraq throughout the year. Donate money, start a fundraising campaign, or volunteer if you want to support their work.
Spread awareness via social media.
Tragic news from Iran and Iraq today. Canadians offer their deepest sympathies to the families affected by the earthquake in the region.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) November 13, 2017
Sharing a supportive Instagram post or tweet is not quite the same as volunteering or donating money. But spreading awareness is important. The more people are aware of the earthquake, the more potential donors for the cause.