A natural disaster in every sense of the word occurred during the past months. A devastating earthquake strikes entire cities in Turkey and Syria. Thousands of dead and wounded, concern and general grief spread worldwide from the ongoing situation. Many in Winnipeg have lost family members and are mourning their loss. 

 Douglas Mennonite Church in Winnipeg organized fundraising to help earthquake victims at the church building on March 4th, 2023. 

 In this episode of Civic Platform, John Wiebe, Co-Chairperson Missions Committee, Douglas Mennonite Church talked about how quickly Canadians responded to coming to help the earthquake victims. He stressed the necessity of this gathering to convey a message to those affected that they are not alone and that we all feel for them. The church service and dinner worked to collect the largest amount of money possible to help the earthquake victims which will be distributed through the well-known Mennonite Service Committee.

Wiebe spoke about the role of the Douglas Mennonite Church in standing with this unfortunate news. He said we all must stand and cooperate to help other societies that suffer from natural disasters and wars. We can help, and no matter how little it is, it will be great for those who are homeless and live in danger and lack safety. Every dollar will make a difference in saving lives that may be lost at any moment. 

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Contact Zuher Almusre, our civic journalist, to share your story and explore civic issues at zuheralmusre@u-channel.ca. 
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