Important Update from Remar SOS! Our shelter settlement project in Turkey is making remarkable progress, and we are excited to share the latest developments with you. This initiative aims to provide safe and secure shelter for individuals and families facing displacement. Here’s an overview of the camp details:

64 Shelters for Families in Need: The shelter settlement will comprise a total of 64 shelters, ensuring accommodation for those who need it the most.

Robust Three-Layer Design: All 64 shelters are currently in the process of being constructed with a robust three-layer design, offering enhanced durability and stability for long-term use.

Spacious Living: Each shelter house will measure 3×5 meters, providing sufficient space to meet the basic living requirements of the residents.

Comfort in Any Weather: The shelters are built with a strong iron structure and incorporate insulation to regulate internal temperatures, offering comfort in various weather conditions.

Weather-Resistant: To enhance weather resistance, the shelters are equipped with wooden walls, complete with front and back doors.

Stable Foundation: The housing units feature a stable cement foundation and rubber flooring, ensuring a solid and comfortable base for the residents.

Privacy and Safety: A thoughtful approach has been taken to ensure sufficient space for privacy and safety for all residents.

Essential Facilities: The camp will include essential facilities such as a kitchen, laundry area, dedicated kids’ activity zone, health care services, and showers and toilets, catering to the basic needs of the residents.

Quality Construction: Each shelter is constructed with three layers, comprising an iron structure, insulation, chipboard, and a roof made of corrugated iron, ensuring longevity and reliability.

A Collaborative Effort: This project is the result of a collaborative effort involving multiple organizations, demonstrating our commitment to working together to make a positive impact on the lives of those affected.

Stay Tuned for Updates: We will keep you informed about the progress of the shelter settlement as we continue construction. Our aim is to provide vital support and relief to individuals and families facing challenging circumstances.

We Need Your Support: We appreciate your support and encourage you to share this important initiative with others. Together, we can create a safe and nurturing environment for those in need in Turkey. Your help can make a significant difference in the lives of these families.

🔗 Stay Connected: Follow our Instagram blog for more updates, stories from the community, and information on how you can contribute to this humanitarian effort. Join us in bringing hope and resilience to those who need it most.

https://www.instagram.com/remar.sos/

World Refugee Day serves as a reminder that more than 103 million individuals have been forcibly displaced from their homes due to conflicts, wars, persecution, and crises. Each day, approximately 37,000 people are compelled to leave their homes as a result of conflicts and persecution (source: UNHCR, 2019). Annually, over 100,000 refugees seek refuge in Europe. It is important to acknowledge that the governments of peripheral European countries face challenges in effectively addressing this situation (source: UNHCR, Operational Portal).

Our involvement with refugees began in 2015 on the island of Lesbos, Greece, where it emerged as a place of sanctuary for individuals fleeing Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan. At our tented centers, we have been dedicated to providing sustenance, companionship, and essential provisions, ensuring their basic needs are met. We have also extended our efforts to apply the SOS protocol in other countries and continue to provide support to refugees in Ukraine, as well as internally displaced individuals who have lost their homes in Turkey.

While it is important to acknowledge the difficulties and pain experienced by these individuals, we have chosen to focus on the resilience of children, the sense of fulfillment, the formation of communities, and the creation of new opportunities that contribute to long-term assistance. To achieve this, we are committed to constructing purpose-built residential areas within established camps, featuring well-planned infrastructure that facilitates a sense of normalcy and allows people to rebuild their lives.

As part of our ongoing work, we envision the establishment of comprehensive centers that include modern sports facilities, sanitation services, social kitchens, and inviting communal spaces, complemented by hygiene and recreational areas. These initiatives aim to provide a dignified and supportive environment for individuals to thrive and rebuild their lives.

It is currently 3 months since the first earthquake surfaced and swallowed all that was in its path. The after-fold of destruction remains immense and overwhelming. I found myself between the hills of Antakya, Hatay, with not much expectations except that of to help. I believe most first response teams that go to disaster stricken areas have this idea of going from a position of helping. Which is absolutely subconsciously the idea I carried while heading to Hatay. However I was the one that was helped. Yes giving resources, food, shoes, underwear, shampoo, etc. all of these are necessities. Although in return we are given the opportunity to receive even more than we can give. Instead of entering from mindset of healer, I found myself sitting at the feet of the Turks in awe of their strength. Positioning myself from ‘healer’ to learner. To witness the turks carry such bravery and joy amongst the face of literal death is such a priceless gift that I have received. As the days turned to weeks, the way the Turks have carried themselves during this time is nothing short of heroic.

We, handful of volunteers, stay in a 1 story building on army cots. The first days I was there we had to sleep outside in about 32 degree weather because earthquakes where still happening. I was stuffed in a sleeping bag and wrapped as tight as I could be in blankets. Since working in Hatay I have experienced 6 earthquakes. One 6.4 magnitude hit while I was walking with my children and the best way I could describe it is as if I was in a snow globe and someone began shaking it. Simultaneously you could hear the surrounding buildings around us falling. I wasn’t scared surprisingly, but maybe it’s just because I didn’t have time to be scared, immediately all the kids (about 15 of them) jumped on me. It was like they were all drowning and I was the only life vest in the middle of the ocean. The trauma response they all had was absolutely heart breaking. I felt little nails dig into my arms, my legs, my back, my hair, it was truly heart breaking. All while they began screaming and it’s just because they have already survived so much that there is now so much trauma attached to them from their survival. I kept repeating “her şey iyi her şey iyi her şey iyi” which translates to everything is okay. After the earthquake stopped they started reaching for phones to call their mom. One boy who is about 12 that was with me just kept crying “Annem” which means ‘my mom’ in Turkish. He then called his mother and to hear the panic in both their voices once the phone line connected to make sure that both their lives weren’t lost was just truly an emotion I cannot describe. Another earthquake was when I was asleep. I was awoken shaking violently and my body reacted faster than my mind did. I again wasn’t scared, but my body, by the first vibration, immediately jumped me out of my army cot before I could even realize what was happening. Pretty soon by the 3rd and 4th and 5th hit it became just another day. 

A typical day in a disaster zone fluctuates quite often. While there is an organized schedule we function by, everyday looks different. Slowly there has been a progression in restructuring. Although whilst new camps are being built; beside the housing lies the remembrance of what once was now turned to dust and rubble next to it. When the earthquake first happened the weather was close to freezing but now as the sun rises so does the heat. Even though the destruction that still remains as a constant reminder of what took place, there’s so much beauty found in the culture that will never cease. Entering tents where there is no place to sit, no electricity, no water and minimal resources I am greeted with genuine Turkish hospitality. To serve people who constantly serve others leaves me with no words which express the gratitude I have received.

Today, we want to talk about something close to our hearts – bread! Bread is one of those unsung heroes in the food world. No matter where we go, there is always bread on the table, and it is a staple food in many cultures around the world.

Recently, we were chatting with our team about the importance of bread, and we thought we’d share a couple of fun facts with you that you might not know.

Fact number one – did you know that the bread we serve at our center for internally displaced people in Rivne, Ukraine is actually baked by amazing volunteers? That’s right! A team of people who were evacuated from Donbas have come together, led by the wonderful Hanna, to bake delicious loaves of bread for those in need. It’s heartwarming to see how much people care and are willing to give back to their community!

Fact number two – bread is a big deal in Turkish culture! In our city where our base and local kitchen are located, we’ve seen many small businesses struggle to stay afloat after being damaged in various ways. But one bakery that we have partnered with has found a way to thrive! They may not have a factory, but they have an incredible team of bakers who handcraft the most delicious loaves of bread we’ve ever tasted. And the best part? By ordering from them, we’re not only getting the freshest bread around, but we’re also supporting a small local business. Every day we distribute 800 loaves of bread to families who are receiving food at our base.

So, there you have it – two fun facts about bread that you might not have known before.

At our organization, we’re always striving to provide the best quality food to those in need, while also supporting the community around us. We’re grateful for every hand that has helped us along the way.

Today marks the one-year anniversary since the start of the large-scale invasion in Ukraine. In this challenging period, Remar SOS team has remained steadfast in its commitment to providing essential support and relief to the affected communities. As we reflect on the past year, let us highlight the impactful work accomplished by our dedicated team.

Hot Meals and Necessities:

Throughout the year, Remar has served hot meals to an astounding 950,000 individuals affected by the conflict. We believe that a warm meal not only nourishes the body but also provides comfort and a sense of normalcy in times of crisis. Additionally, we have distributed over 1,320,000 kilograms of first necessity items, ensuring that basic needs are met for those facing displacement and hardship.

Medical Attention and Rescues:

Our team has been provided crucial medical attention to 99,000 people affected by the invasion. From emergency care to ongoing treatments, we have worked tirelessly to address the health needs of those impacted by the conflict. Furthermore, we have successfully rescued 19,000 individuals, ensuring their safety and well-being amidst the chaos.

Continued Commitment:

As we reflect on the past year, we want to emphasize that our work in Ukraine is far from over. Remar remains dedicated to supporting and rebuilding communities affected by the invasion. Our team continues to work tirelessly on the ground, offering humanitarian aid, providing everiday support and giving meals for refugees, providing psychological support to help individuals heal from the trauma they have experienced, providing clothes and activities for fmilies and kids.

One year has passed since the beginning of the large-scale invasion in Ukraine, but Remar SOS commitment to the people remains unwavering. Through the provision of hot meals, essential supplies, medical attention, and rescues, our team has made a tangible impact on the lives of those affected. As we move forward, we stand united with Ukraine, ready to continue our vital work and support the resilience and recovery of the communities we serve.

I am honestly at a loss for words on how to begin this newsletter. I won’t sugarcoat anything. Turkey is currently facing a severe crisis. On February 6th, a quiet Monday morning turned into a historic-catastrophic record day. A devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Turkey. Fortunately, I was not physically affected by the earthquake where I am located. Although personally affected is a different story. Search and rescue missions have already begun and I plan to be accepted as a volunteer as well when the next wave of volunteers is organized.

The architecture in Turkey consists mainly of multi-story buildings. Meaning, when a collapse happens it is not merely single family homes that fall with the rubble, but it is extremely multifaceted. When the initial hit happened it was around 4am. The streets were empty and beds were full. Aftershocks continued for several hours after the last earthquake. More minor, although still destructive, earthquakes lasted weeks, even months, after. The extent of destruction spans over 316 miles. Tragically, some members of my community, including a pastor and his wife, were trapped under the rubble and did not survive. Their two sons were rescued, but many others have lost their homes along with all of their belongings. They have been forced to sleep on the streets around fires, or those who are fortunate enough to have transportation, to sleep in their cars. One of my closest Turkish friends, Emir, got the call all of his friends from childhood and their families laid deep beneath the rubble unable to be retracted. All we could do is wait knowing that the ones who still held onto life, lay their hopeful, as we stand on the other side completely helpless. Another Turkish woman who was pregnant and became trapped under the very home she rested her head, gave birth between the ice cement and rebar of her collapsed home. The birth was miraculous although she soon fell lifeless after delivering life. Her newborn baby was rescued.

The situation is dire, with no electricity or water in many affected areas. The death toll has been doubling each day and countless lives have been lost. I have witnessed an unimaginable magnitude of destruction. I struggle to find the words to express the impact of these events and how they are affecting us all.

The recovery process will undoubtedly take years. Even five years after Hurricane Katrina hit the United States, families were still trying to rebuild their lives while living in shelters. Plus that was in a westernized country with more resources and infrastructure. I cannot fathom the immense strength it will take for Turkey to recover on its own after the initial shock subsides and the media shifts its focus elsewhere.

It is not a coincidence that Turkey has faced a series of crises over the past year. From the currency crisis to economic struggles, housing crisis, record breaking inflation increase and now the physical destruction which mimics that of economic destruction. This country has endured one crisis after another all within the span of a single year. These events have taken a heavy toll on a nation that was once laid in a stable economic standing. I feel as if I have bore witness to a ruthless cancer slowly feeding off this deeply rich cultured country.

Turkey’s rich history and cultural significance are undeniable. Just a few weeks before the earthquake I had the opportunity to visit Ephesus in Izmir, a place of historical importance. Turkey is a land of preserved ruins, cobbled stones which withstand thousands of years and rich culture. I am continually humbled by the depth of history and the cultural significance of this land. However, I am also aware that our human intellect falls short in understanding the complexities of events and the interconnectedness of it all. There is a sense in my spirit that Turkey is in a profoundly significant and climactic moment; outside the bounds of it’s history transcending our perception of time.

It can be challenging to maintain hope and resilience in times like these. We are witnessing a year of immense grief and destruction. The physical devastation caused by this earthquake is heartbreaking, with buildings collapsing and lives lost. It can be emotionally draining, as one moment you see glimpses of hope, and the next moment you question the feasibility of recovery. Some days it feels as if our efforts make no difference and we may even take steps backward. However, we must remember that throughout history, humanity has shown resilience in the face of adversity. It is in times of crises that the true strength of a nation and its people emerges.

This is a photo of a father Mesut Hancer. He sat on the freezing rubble, too grief stricken to speak, refusing to let go of his 15 year old daughter Irmak’s hand as she lies lifeless under the concerete and strands of twisted rebar. He sat with her all night throughout the freezing cold knowing she had passed.