After a series of earthquakes hit Turkey last week, the National Association of Christian Churches, or NACC, in Houston stepped up and is now sending supplies to the affected areas.
After hearing about the events, Warehouse Manager Isaiah Alonzo Chirip and his team quickly went to work to send supplies over to Turkey and Syria. They have donated 26 pallets worth of food and beverages already.
Chirip is in charge of the Houston location which acts as the Hub for the whole organization. He said there are different types of supplies needed to help in the best way possible.
"Things that we are lacking, are, I would say we would need small generators because I know that there’s not a lot of power going out right now. So it would be generators, anything, I would say chainsaws and stuff to cut down trees, more blankets, more winter clothing," Chirip said.
When asked about food Chirip stressed that canned foods are best as they last longer for storage.
"Anything canned, fruit, beans, vegetables. If you have something like canned meat as well, goes a long way." Chirip said. "Water as well."
Even with enough volunteers, the organization still struggles with getting supplies out. With the U.S. government not recommending traveling to Syria, supplies may arrive there slower than expected.
"Unfortunately, with the complications of Syria, it’s going to be difficult for us to actually ship it there," Chirip said.
Despite the setbacks, the organization is determined and willing to do what it can to help those in need.
NACC was founded in 1992, to provide pastors with tools to help keep their churches running.
However, the organization switched from a church resource center to a disaster relief center in 2005. Since its launch, the NACC has aided in many significant events, such as Hurricanes Georges in 1998, Katrina in 2005, and Wilma in 2005.
For volunteering NACCs doors and website are always open for people who want to get involved.
"We have it online at nacchelps.org, and you can fill out the form there online, or you could come into our office, and we love to have you on call for whenever we need disaster help."