DS Smith plc

03/28/2023 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 03/28/2023 08:32

Turkey earthquake: A message of support

Turkey earthquake: A message of support

A month on since the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria, we continue to share our support to all those who have been affected.

The 7.8 magnitude earthquake which struck on February 6th 2023 was the most devastating to hit Turkey for more than 20 years. The quake was not in the vicinity of our operations in the region and we are fortunate that no colleagues have been injured, although we still remain concerned for their families and friends during this time.

Words are insufficient in describing the pain felt and damage throughout the country. We immediately took actions to support those who suffered the earthquake as a DS Smith family and individually.

Serdar Alfasa
Cluster Director, DS Smith Packaging Division, Turkey

In response to the disaster, ourPackaging Division in Turkey has made donations to the following organisations:

  • 100.000 TL to Ahbap, an independent NGO working in coordination with state agencies for disaster relief.
  • 50.000 TL donation to Afad, the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority of Turkey.

The DS Smith Charitable Foundation has also liaised with local contacts to determine the best way of directly supporting those communities affected and has made a 50,000 GBP contribution to the Red Crescent Turkey (Turk Kizilay).

We have collected 95.250 K TL for our colleague whose home was seriously affected in the area of Maraş.

Simge Sanal
Financial Controller, DS Smith Packaging Division, Turkey

Our Turkish colleagues organised a local fund to show their support and well wishes - a contribution which has been matched by the DS Smith Charitable Foundation.

Simge Sanal
Financial Controller, DS Smith Packaging Division, Turkey

Our greatest sympathies are with those affected by the Earthquake in Turkey. We would like to help local support recovery efforts and have therefore chosen to donate towards the Red Crescent Turkey (Turk Kizilay).

Wouter van Tol
Head of Sustainability & Community Affairs, Chair of the DS Smith Charitable Foundation

If you are wishing to donate in a personal capacity, the Disasters Emergency Committee has launched an appealfor donations.