FIFA announces millionaire donation to earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria

FIFA announced this Friday (17) a donation of US$ 1 million (about R$ 5.2 million) to the victims of the earthquake that hit regions of Turkey and Syria last week. Resources will be used for humanitarian assistance in countries through the FIFA Foundation, an independent entity founded to promote social change through sport.

The organization contacted the national confederations of Turkey and Syria, as well as non-governmental organizations, to understand which basic needs this money should be used for. The funds will be used for the purchase of emergency items and to provide temporary shelter to those in need after the disaster in the region.

So far, more than 42,000 people have lost their lives in the earthquake that hit the Middle East last week. In addition, thousands of other individuals are homeless, in sub-zero temperatures in the region, which is currently experiencing winter.

“On behalf of the global football community, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives in the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria,” said Gianni Infantino last week. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and those injured in this tragedy. We would like to express our solidarity and support for the people of both countries during this terrible time.”

The strong earthquake of magnitude 7.8 hit southeast Turkey and northern Syria in the early hours of February 6, Monday. Over the past few days, Brazilian athletes have reported the drama experienced in the countries, such as Souza and Willian Arão. Christian Atsu, former Chelsea player, remains missing after the earthquake.