After the devastating earthquakes, local Christian relief teams are on hand to help the vulnerable.
A priest from Aleppo, Syria tells us: "People seek shelter in the church from the cold and rain as their houses are uninhabitable and they are very afraid of aftershocks."
Another priest tells us: "We urgently need food, blankets, clothes and heating material, it's very cold and it's raining and snowing. Many houses have collapsed or are uninhabitable.
They need urgent help, the government has set up some tents, but it's not enough for everyone. In Aleppo, many are looking for places to live because their houses are uninhabitable. People are afraid of aftershocks. In the Shahbah area, churches have been transformed into emergency shelters. Many are also staying overnight in the churches.
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For people to return to their homes, at least those that were only partially destroyed, repair and renovation work will soon be necessary. It breaks our hearts to see how people are suffering and how much distress there is. For many, it will be a long time before they can live in any degree of safety again."
Since 2014, Danish European Mission donors have been providing emergency aid to the vulnerable in Syria through local churches.
In Turkey, the local Christians that the Danish European Mission works with also responded immediately to the earthquake. Danish European Mission donors have been helping the church in Turkey for many years. Relief work is already underway and earthquake victims are receiving emergency aid.
The aid distributed is adapted to local needs in Turkey and Syria. It consists of blankets, water, tents, winter clothing and food. The food packages can include rice, cereals, lentils, oil, sugar, tea, spices and cheese.
In Syria, vulnerable people also receive hygiene kits with soap for hand washing and laundry, toothbrushes and toothpaste, shampoo and a comb.
The contents of food and hygiene packs vary according to supply and demand. Other items can be added and items can be removed as needed.
Emergency aid can prevent persecution
All aid is distributed through local Christians. And in countries where Christians can experience persecution, discrimination and oppression, it makes an impact when the Christian minority reaches out to their fellow human beings in need.
It can break down prejudice and skepticism towards Christians and give the church a platform in society to have a voice and share the gospel. Through emergency aid, God's love in Jesus Christ can be demonstrated in a practical way, and it can touch people in the very vulnerable situation they find themselves in.
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