Monroe County Executive Adam Bello Announces Rapid Relief Effort for Turkish Earthquake Victims

February 7th, 2023

Donations accepted through Friday at the County Office Building & local DMVs

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Spanish Language Version (PDF)

Monroe County Executive Adam Bello today is urging the community to donate to an earthquake relief drive to benefit those affected by the recent devastating earthquake that rocked Türkiye and Syria. Collection boxes will be placed at the Monroe County Office Building (39 W. Main St. Rochester, NY 14614) and local DMV offices. The effort is in coordination with the Turkish Society of Rochester, which is coordinating shipments of supplies.

“Thousands of people lost their lives in this historic catastrophe that devastated Türkiye and Syria, and many of our residents have family and loved ones abroad who need our help,” said County Executive Bello. “Our community is one of generosity and kindness for those in need. I know we stand ready to help as we did for the Ukraine and Puerto Rico relief efforts. My thanks to the Turkish Society for their help mobilizing this effort.”

“I share the shock and pain so many in our community feel following the devastating stories coming out of Turkiye and Syria,” said Monroe County Clerk Jamie Romeo. “Monroe County residents will combine our thoughts and prayers with action, as we always do, and stand with the people of Turkiye and Syria around the world in the days, weeks, months, and years ahead.”

“The needs of the people in the earthquake impacted area are dire and help is needed immediately,” said Nihat Selcuk, President of the Turkish Society of Rochester. “We are grateful to the County Executive and Monroe County for their help in our time of crisis.”

Items urgently needed include:

  • Non-prescription medication

  • Baby diapers

  • Dry baby formula

  • Cleaning supplies

  •  New winter socks

  • Winter gloves, hats and scarves

  • Winter coats in new or gently used condition

Due to the dire need for these items, the donations will be sent at end of day Friday, February 10. Items may be dropped off at the County Office Building, 39 W. Main Street, or any DMV location listed below during normal business hours:

  • Henrietta DMV (1225 Jefferson Rd. Suite A26 Rochester, NY 14623)

  • Irondequoit DMV (545 Titus Ave. Rochester, NY 14617)

  • Rochester DMV (200 E. Main St., Ste. 101 Rochester, NY 14604)

  • Greece DMV (The Mall at Greece Ridge)

For more information, visit the Turkish Society of Rochester’s Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tsor1

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