Middle East Earthquake Relief — May 2023 Update
On February 6, 2023, the world woke to the news of a devastating earthquake in Syria and Turkey. We all watched reports from the field indicating the region was in dire need of help. The Outreach Foundation responded quickly (within 24 hours) by establishing the Middle East Earthquake Relief Appeal which has generated widespread support from our donor base.
One of our dear partners in the region, Joseph Kassab, General Secretary of the Synod of Syria and Lebanon wrote recently, “Tens of thousands of people are still living in the open. Those affected by the earthquake are left to God and its people to support.”
The National Evangelical Synod of Syria and Lebanon (NESSL) which Joseph leads has spent the first months following the earthquake focusing on immediate relief work among the affected people by opening shelters and providing food, water, heat, clothes, mattresses, and blankets.
One woman spoke to the pastor of the church in Aleppo, Syria, Rev. Ibrahim Nessir, who has helped coordinate earthquake efforts. The woman said, “You, the people of the cross, are compassionate with us more than our own community.” The Presbyterian church of Aleppo is responding with love and help. The church has reached out because this is what Jesus would do.
Today, NESSL focuses on finding a place for those living in tents through rental help. The Synod has worked to repair houses damaged by the quake. They are trying to renovate churches to receive many of the poor without a place to live.
The drastic economic situation in Syria has created additional hardship. United States sanctions and the government’s limited financial resources find 90% of the Syrian people in need. An average worker’s salary is now less than 20 dollars a month. Yet the church remains resilient and committed to serving the people of God.
Please continue to support Middle East Earthquake Relief and help the people of Lebanon, Syria, and Turkey.
Mark Mueller
Executive Director
THE OPPORTUNITY
The Outreach Foundation is seeking gifts to support Middle East Earthquake Relief. All gifts of any size are welcomed. You may make a gift HERE or by sending a check to our office.