Three Ways You Can Help Support Greece Wildfire Victims Right Now
updated on Jul 26, 2018
Thought to be amongst the deadliest fires on record in Greece, over 80 have been reported dead. 70 are still receiving treatment in hospital, with dozens missing and thousands left without a home
Fires broke out in the eastern resort of Mati 5pm local time (2pm UK BST) on Monday, spreading quickly. Popular with local and international tourists, hundreds are thought to have made their way to the beach and into the sea in attempts to escape. Reports suggest an estimated 40 still missing, though no official numbers have been released. As the search for survivors continues, families have begun posting photos of their missing relatives online in hopes of tracing their whereabouts.
In their latest bulletin on Wednesday, the Hellenic Red Cross reported there had been 81 confirmed deaths so far, with 164 adults injured and 24 children requiring medical care.
How you can support those affected in Greece
Donate to the Red Cross - The Hellenic Red Cross are on the ground, providing vital help and support to victims. Their latest report outlines the support they have provided, including first aid and relief item distribution, providing psychological first aid, psychosocial support, and helping restore family links. Donations can be made directly to the Red Cross online.
Donate to Desmos - A non-profit bridge between the private sector and NGOs, Desmos are on the ground in Athens, helping collect goods and funds to deliver to people, charities, and organizations in need. The latest update on their campaigns can be found via their Facebook page. Support Desmos directly via their website or Go Fund Me campaign.
Raise awareness - While there is a lot of news covering the tragic events in Greece, raising awareness of organisations that are providing vital aid and support is crucial in finding additional funding to directly help those who have been injured, lost a loved one, or lost their homes to wildfires. Share information and donation pages from The Hellenic Red Cross and Desmos to encourage more people to support and help them continue to provide aid to those affected by this tragedy.
The fires, thought to be caused by dry, hot summer months and stoked by high winds have left Mati in ruins. Authorities are reportedly looking into the possibility that arsonists may have started the blazes.
Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras declared three days of mourning in the face of this unspeakable tragedy. European Commission Chief Jean-Claude Juncker shared their support of Greece, declaring the Commission will “spare no effort to help Greece and the Greek people” in comments on Twitter earlier this week.
I just spoke to the President of the Hellenic Republic P. Pavlopoulos and Prime Minister @tsipras_eu. I am deeply saddened for the loss of so many lives in this horrible tragedy. The @EU_Commission will spare no effort to help Greece and the Greek people.
— Jean-Claude Juncker (@JunckerEU) 24 July 2018
Head of NATO, Jens Stoltenberg shared their support and solidarity with the Greek people.
My thoughts are with all those affected by the devastating fires in #Greece. NATO stands in solidarity with the Greek people at this difficult time.
— Jens Stoltenberg (@jensstoltenberg) 24 July 2018
