Friends of Hatay

In Partnership with Sinemasal

In

Since the 2023 earthquake in Southeastern, Türkiye, which claimed over 50,000 lives, the region still grapples with recovery. In Hatay province alone, more than 800,000 people were displaced, and a fraction of the houses promised by the government have been delivered; 7,300 of 254,000. More than a year on, approximately 800,000 people live in converted shipping containers and tents. Friends of Hatay aims to provide vital humanitarian aid to those affected, offering support as they rebuild. Join us in solidarity as we work to alleviate suffering and restore hope to the resilient people of Hatay.

Hatay is in southeastern Türkiye and borders Syria and the Mediterranean Sea.

What do we do?

Friends of Hatay are collaborating with our partners at Sinemasal to fundraise and organise events dedicated to earthquake relief efforts in Hatay. Sinemasal is a social enterprise that introduces children and their families living in socio-culturally disadvantaged areas to the magical world of cinema. After the earthquake, Sinemasal pivoted and expanded their efforts to supporting people in Southeastern Türkiye. That support includes sourcing and distributing food and basic supplies, providing childcare, preparing students for schooling and running cinematic and other events to bring a little happiness to the lives of people who are desperately trying to recover. Together, we aim to mobilise resources and gather support from a global community to provide essential aid such as food, clothing, and other needs to those affected by the disaster. Through our collective efforts, we aim to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families impacted by the 2023 earthquake in Hatay.

Join an online cooking class to support Hatay relief -

Join an online cooking class to support Hatay relief -

Join us to learn some Ottoman and Turkish dishes, many from the book by food historian Özge Samancı and Sharon - Flavours of Istanbul: A selection from original 19th Century Ottoman recipes. With all proceeds going towards earthquake relief efforts, come and make some delicious and authentic Turkish food to help those in need.

More classes with more exciting and tasty Ottoman and Turkish dishes will be announced soon!