Turkish Americans in Washington state raise money for earthquake victims

A Seattle group has been so overwhelmed by donations to Turkey and Syria in the wake of Monday's devastating earthquake that the group now says it is accepting financial donations only.

According to Turkish Airlines, six tons of care packages have been sent from Sea-Tac Airport to support victims of the earthquake, which has killed more than 12,000 people. Tufan Erdinc, president of the Turkish American Cultural Association of Washington State, says care packages included blankets, sleeping bags, winter clothing, diapers, baby formula, and feminine products.

Erdinc says it’s a sad and devastating situation. Many cities have been cut off due damage to the roads. Erdinc also worries as survivors of the earthquake now need to also fight hyperthermia.

“They don't have that much time. Even if they survived the earthquake, they might still be in danger, fighting with cold weather and the harsh conditions,” Erdinc says.

Related: Turkey's Fault lines similar to those under Puget Sound

Although Erdinc's organization has stopped accepting the donation of goods, it is still raising money to help earthquake victims and their families.

Donate here.

Related: How to make sure your donation will do the most good for earthquake survivors

Erdinc said his group will resume collecting goods once they are notified they can send out more care packages.

“The death toll is rising every day, and that [monetary aid] is the quickest way to help,” Erdinc said.

NOTE: This story has been updated to reflect the latest needs and the rising death toll from Monday's earthquake.