UNICEF The representative in Türkiye, Regina De Dominicis, said that although the humanitarian response to the disaster was swift, “The immediate future of millions of children remains uncertain“.
Urgent need for health and protection
To meet the most urgent needs, UNICEF has reach more than 390,000 people with cleaning kit, winter clothes, electric heater and blanket.
The UN agency has also provided water to thousands of people while the damaged supply network is being repaired.
On the health front, UNICEF has been supporting the Türkiye government with vaccine supply including polio, diphtheria and tetanus, as well as medical equipment and supplies.
As part of the emergency response, the agency has also worked with partners to assist family gathering and has reached over 149,000 children and carers with psychosocial support.
UNICEF stresses that “these efforts must continue and child protection services must be maintained continuously“.
Education in jeopardy
According to UNICEF, the earthquake affected nearly four million students in Türkiye. While nearly 1.5 million people have continued their education in affected areas and another 250,000 are able to continue their education after relocating elsewhere in the country, many more are at risk of being left behind. .
To ensure that learning can continue, UNICEF is funding the repairs of more than 1,170 schools, which will benefit more than 300,000 children, and supporting the Department of Education with temporary classrooms during the school year. prefabricated structures and tents.
The agency is also offering supplemental classes and homework help at 37 dedicated children, youth and family support centers across 10 provinces.
Getting life back on track
UNICEF in Türkiye is calling for an additional $138 million continue to support children affected by the earthquake and call on the international community to make sure their needs are prioritized.
In addition to the emergency response, UNICEF reiterated that longer-term support is needed for children and their families, so that people can “recover and start rebuilding their lives”.
“More support is vital to ensure children are protected and their needs are met as a central part of the recovery process,” Ms. De Dominicis said, so that disaster does not continue to affect their lives for decades to come.
