The nations of Turkey and Syria are experiencing the effects of a gigantic earthquake that started on Monday, Feb. 6.

The tragedy has, as of now, has resulted in more than 20,000 deaths across the two countries and has permanently damaged families worldwide. The U.S. and other nations are currently working on quickly sending relief aid.

The earthquake started around 4 am on Monday, injuring and killing, as of Friday, Feb. 10, over 20,000 people. Thankfully, help has come fast, with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies already having announced a Disaster Response Emergency Fund to aid them in this tragedy. The U.S., similarly to other nations around the world,  announced that it is sending $85 million in humanitarian aid to support victims of the crisis.

On Thursday, Feb. 7, Niles North principal James Edwards sent out an email to students informing them of the calamity and clarifying the school district’s position on the issue. 

“As a Niles North community, we express our sincere condolences and solidarity to all those affected by this disaster,” Edwards said.

He also conveyed the district’s understanding of Niles North students and families impacted by the tragedy and reminded everyone of the school’s social workers and psychologists, all of whom are ready to help those affected.

Unfortunately, students around Niles North have also been impacted by the earthquake. Freshman Elena Lazar, who has family living in Syria, shared her thoughts on the disaster.

“I think it’s pretty sad how people lost family members,” Lazar said. “In order to help with the problem, people should post more about it and the ways you can help.”

Freshman Bahra Mando, whose parents are from Syria and has family members living there, expressed a similar sentiment.

“People should donate money and talk about it,” Mando said.

If you or any of your friends or family members would like to help the cause, make sure to donate here or to other fundraisers around the world.