Behind Friends of Hatay stand Sharon and Elena Croxford, a mother-daughter duo deeply entrenched in the vibrant tapestry of Turkish culture. With decades of residence and work in Türkiye, we have absorbed its cultural nuances, traditions, and the inherent warmth of its people. Elena, carrying the legacy of her Turkish heritage, has always nurtured a connection to her roots, strengthened by cherished friendships and family ties in various regions of Türkiye. However, it was the profound impact of the 2023 earthquakes that shook Türkiye to its core, displacing millions and leaving countless buildings in ruins, which compelled us to take action.

Moved by the resilience of the Turkish populace in the face of such adversity, we were spurred into action. Witnessing the ongoing and dire need for assistance, especially in the region of Hatay, we felt an urgency to establish Friends of Hatay—an initiative aimed at extending aid and relief to those affected by the earthquake—those whom the world seems to have forgotten.

In collaboration with Sinemasal, led by our dear friend Enes Kaya, Friends of Hatay endeavours to enact meaningful change in the lives of earthquake survivors. Sinemasal's expertise in post-disaster rehabilitation, coupled with our commitment to support the ongoing needs of the population, promises some relief for affected communities.

With our inaugural volunteering mission completed in August 2024, we rolled up our sleeves and made a direct impact. Our hands-on involvement reflects our dedication to ensuring that every contribution reaches those most in need. By immersing ourselves in the communities we serve, we aim to gain firsthand insights into the challenges faced by the people of Hatay, enabling us to tailor our assistance more effectively in the future.

We extend heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported Friends of Hatay thus far. Together, as a mother-daughter team, we are determined to transform compassion into action, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those rebuilding their homes and communities in the wake of tragedy.

To follow our journey visit our Instagram

*All information, statistics and facts are provided by the World Health Organisation and the United Nations // all photos are credited to Sharon Croxford and Elena Croxford