Where to Donate Clothes for Turkey Earthquake Relief

The devastating earthquakes that struck Turkey and Syria in early February 2023 have left millions in urgent need of humanitarian aid. As recovery efforts continue donations of clothing and other necessities can provide vital support to those impacted by these disasters. If you’re looking for reputable organizations accepting clothing donations for Turkey this guide covers some highly-rated options.

Why Donate Clothes?

In the aftermath of the earthquakes, hundreds of thousands were displaced from their homes into temporary shelters or damaged buildings. Many lost everything, including warm clothing to withstand the winter conditions. Donations of coats, sweaters, socks, blankets and other cold weather gear can help bring some comfort during this difficult time.

Even as the weeks pass, donated clothing continues meeting pressing needs. Children require outfits to return to school, families need everyday apparel and shoes, and workers need gear for cleanup and rebuilding efforts Ongoing donations ensure a steady supply of clothing reaches survivors

Where to Donate New & Used Clothing

If you have lightly used or new clothing to spare, consider donating to these charitable organizations coordinating earthquake relief in Turkey.

Local Drives

Check if any local relief drives in your community are collecting clothing for Turkey Schools, places of worship, community centers and Turkish cultural centers often organize donation drives. Drop off clothing at specified locations.

Goodwill

This large American nonprofit accepts clothing donations at retail stores to fund job training programs. Goodwill may send donations overseas to disaster regions like Turkey. Locate a Goodwill near you to donate clothing.

Salvation Army

The Salvation Army has a long history of providing humanitarian aid domestically and globally after disasters. Visit one of their family thrift stores to donate clothing that may be sent to Turkey.

Textile Recycling Companies

For-profit textile recyclers like USAgain, Responsible Recycling, and Helpsy collect used clothing to resell or upcycle. Sometimes they donate to relief efforts. Find a clothing drop box near you.

Turkish Aid Organizations

Trusted Turkish charities like the Red Crescent and AHBAP are accepting international clothing donations for quake victims. Ship directly to their facilities or donate money to buy local clothing.

International Relief Groups

Large international aid groups like Save the Children and Red Cross organizing Turkey relief will funnel clothing donations to local partners on the ground. Donate online or at a charity event.

Coordinating a Clothing Drive

If you want to coordinate a community clothing drive for Turkey, follow these tips:

• Partner with a school, faith group, office or existing charity effort to host the drive.

• Set specific dates and locations for donors to drop off clothing. Staff drop spots to accept donations.

• Spread the word on social media, local news, email chains, posters and word-of-mouth.

• Sort through donations, keeping only items in good condition needed for cold weather relief.

• Seek free shipping donations from companies or raise funds to cover mailing costs.

• Work with reputable Turkish charities to ship the clothing or find a larger relief agency to transfer it overseas.

Additional Ways to Help

Donating clothing is just one of many ways to support Turkey earthquake victims:

• Give cash donations to top-rated relief charities like GlobalGiving. Monetary aid is efficient to funnel quickly.

• Donate urgently needed survival supplies like medical kits, hygiene items, diapers and formula.

• Give to charities addressing long-term recovery like home rebuilding, mental health services and education.

• Contribute airline miles to humanitarian flight partners transporting aid workers and supplies.

• Sponsor a Turkey-based child through a reputable charity. Provide a monthly stipend for basic needs.

• Urge government leaders to continue supporting humanitarian assistance and recovery funding.

• Volunteer time with a local Turkish cultural center to pack aid supplies or fundraise.

• Spread awareness on social media and support businesses raising funds for Turkish quake relief.

Even a single warm coat or blanket can make a difference in someone’s life during this exceptionally difficult time. Following the examples above, you can ensure clothing donations efficiently reach Turkey’s women, men and children working to rebuild after disaster.