Earthquake Relief in Turkiye and Syria

When the catastrophic earthquake of February 2023 devastated the lives of thousands of people in Türkiye and Syria, the MSC Foundation and MSC Group responded promptly in support. Through their concerted efforts, they mobilised a remarkable CHF 3.3 million, which have been dedicated both to immediate emergency relief and longer-term rebuilding efforts for the survivors.

Fundraising and Direct Impact

A fundraising campaign involving 1,150 MSC colleagues across 34 offices worldwide swiftly collected over CHF 200,000. This was distributed in full to Red Crescent organisations working in the most severely affected areas of Türkiye and Syria. The funds proved crucial to first relief efforts, including the provision of medical supplies for health facilities and direct financial aid for those most in need.

Comprehensive Relief Efforts

Alongside this financial assistance, the MSC Group immediately adopted a proactive approach, sending MSC Aurelia to the Turkish port of Iskendrun with CHF 100,000 of essential relief items which reached over 60,000 individuals. In an extraordinary action, the ship was then converted to provide emergency accommodation for more than 1,700 people over three months. The MSC Group covered the entire cost of USD 3 million. MSC Türkiye made a similar contribution, setting up container housing for 300 Group employees and their families who had tragically lost their homes.

Partnerships and Extended Reach

The MSC Foundation's partnership with the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) saw it commit to provide free transportation for 100 containers of emergency aid across Türkiye and Syria. At present, 83 containers have already been delivered, bringing vital assistance to more than 25,200 families. The remainder are set to be transported by the end of the year.

The MSC Foundation also provided free transportation for humanitarian aid from Italy and Austria, valued at USD 32,000, benefitting a further 20,000 people in need.

Impact and Gratitude

The total value of the support provided currently stands at CHF 3,348,348, a testament to the impact that compassion and generosity can achieve in response to disaster. These efforts have not only offered material assistance but also brought hope and a pathway to recovery for the thousands of people impacted by the earthquake.

We are profoundly grateful to every individual, colleague, donor and partner who has joined us in these endeavours. Your solidarity and support have been pivotal in providing food, shelter and hope in the aftermath of a devastating disaster.