Deadly earthquakes hit southern Turkey and northern Syria on Monday morning. At the time of this recording, the death toll has surpassed 21,000. In response, Taiwanese citizens are making an effort to help with disaster relief.
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People unload boxes full of supplies which will soon be shipped out. They are part of the numerous donations given by Taiwanese citizens to help victims of the deadly earthquakes that hit Turkey and Syria earlier this week.
The supplies include tents, winter clothing and other necessities. Taiwan's health ministry also opened several donation channels on Tuesday for citizens to give money. Citizens can now donate easily through their local banks at ATMs or on their mobile phones. In two days, over US$265,000 have already been donated.
Citizens can also make a donation at convenience stores through self-service machines. One woman who donated says she donated because Turkey and Taiwan have both been victims of earthquakes.
Director of the Taiwan Center in Turkey Chiu Chen-yu (裘振宇) has returned to Taiwan to spread awareness and fundraise for disaster relief. Chiu says the Center is temporarily being used to house quake victims, and resources are dwindling given the influx of people seeking shelter.
Rebuilding after major disasters is a long term project, so citizens who wish to donate are being encouraged to donate supplies or money in the coming weeks.