World Jewish Relief launches urgent appeal for aid to Myanmar earthquake victims

World Jewish Relief has launched an urgent fundraising appeal for those affected by the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that hit Myanmar on 28 March, claiming thousands of lives and causing widespread destruction across the country.

Thanks to its partnership with Myanmar-based NGO Swanyee, World Jewish Relief is aiming to deliver essential aid to the most heavily impacted regions, with donations that will go towards providing emergency shelter, hygiene kits with water purification tablets and soap, blankets, food packages, and first aid kits to support local medical units.

"Our response is focused on immediate relief and support, ensuring that we reach those in greatest need as quickly as possible," said Paul Anticoni, CEO of World Jewish Relief. "In times of crisis, it is our responsibility as a community to extend our hands and hearts to those suffering, regardless of nationality or faith.”

The earthquake, which has already claimed over 3,500 lives since it struck near Myanmar’s second largest city of Mandalay last Friday, has caused extensive damage to homes, schools, health facilities and urban water supplies.

The quake has exacerbated dire circumstances already plaguing Myanmar’s population, with the ongoing civil war forcing millions from their homes and leaving many more in dire need of humanitarian aid.

World Jewish Relief launches its appeal with the support of the UK’s leading Jewish communal bodies and has invited all those who are able to contribute to the Jewish community’s humanitarian response to donate.

Rabbi Jonathan Wittenberg said: “While supporting Jewish communities in need across the globe, World Jewish Relief upholds the Jewish value of ‘every human life created in God’s image’ by offering a compassionate and swift response wherever people suffer disaster, across all borders of nationality and faith.”

Donations can be made online or by calling 0208 7361250.