This is an archived USAID document retained on this web site as a matter of public record.
White House Fact Sheet on U.S. Humanitarian Relief Efforts for Turkey Earthquake Victims
For Immediate Release
August 23, 1999
FACT SHEET
U.S. Humanitarian Relief Efforts for Turkey Earthquake Victims
Since a devastating earthquake struck Turkey August 17,
President Clinton has mobilized public and private resources in a
broad-ranging effort to help those affected by this natural
disaster. The earthquake caused more than 12,000 deaths and 35,000
injuries, with thousands more still missing. Among the relief
operations undertaken by the United States are the following:
- The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)
deployed two search and rescue teams to help recover earthquake
survivors. One team from Fairfax Fire and Rescue, Va., conducted
24-hour rescue operations from August 18-22. The Fairfax team is
scheduled to return to the Washington area on August 24. The second
team from Metro-Dade, Fla., arrived on August 21 and continues
search and rescue operations. Each team included 70 rescue experts,
search dogs and sensory and earth moving equipment.
- A U.S. team is also working with the United Nations to
coordinate overall international rescue and relief efforts.
Additional U.S. technical experts are in country to help Turkish
officials assess emergency health, water and sanitation needs and
recommend further U.S. assistance needed.
- A 22-member U.S. military crisis response medical team
arrived August 19 and is providing medical assistance in Izmit.
- The USS Kearsarge and the USS Gunston arrived in Golcuk on
August 23 and began air operations at sunrise. The USS Ponce, the
third member of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group, is scheduled
to arrive later today. The three ships provide 2,200 marines, 22
helicopters and substantial medical support, and will help address
public health and shelter needs.
- Three U.S. Naval Ships are scheduled to arrive in Turkey over
the next three days to further support relief efforts. Each has the
capacity to generate 100,000 gallons of water per day.
- The U.S. military is providing 3,500 family size tents to
help address shelter needs, and has donated 10,000 surgical gloves,
masks and medical supplies. At the Turkish government's request,
the United States is also providing 10,000 body bags.
- A USAID-chartered plane delivered 30,000 blankets, 500 rolls
of plastic sheeting for shelter and medicine for 10,000 people. A
second airlift carrying water purification units capable of
assisting 28,000 persons is scheduled to arrive on August 24.
The President encourages Americans to help the Turkish people by
providing support to relief agencies that are active in the region.
Cash donations will enable these organizations to purchase exactly
what is needed, locally and regionally, thus speeding up the
delivery of assistance. For more information on organizations
active in Turkey, call 1-800-USAID-RELIEF or access the USAID Web
site at www.usaid.gov.
This is an archived USAID document retained on this web site as a matter of public record.
