WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, February 10, 2023 — American Humane, the country’s first national humane organization, authorized an emergency grant to the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) today to support its response to a devastating earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria on Monday. The powerful 7.8-magnitude quake has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced even more residents and their animals in both countries.

“We are honored to provide IFAW with this grant for their life-saving support in the aftermath of such a terrible tragedy,” American Humane president and CEO Dr. Robin Ganzert said. “Whether it’s through our highly skilled Rescue Team putting boots on the ground, or providing financial support for dedicated organizations like IFAW who help local animal rescue teams on the frontlines, it is our duty to protect the animals with whom we share the world.”

This catastrophic earthquake comes just days after the American Humane Rescue Team wrapped up its deployment to Georgia, where our animal first responders helped run an emergency shelter for more than 130 animals impacted by deadly tornadoes that hit Spalding County in January.

“American Humane will do everything in our power to provide hope and healing to resilient communities in trying times,” Dr. Ganzert said. “Our hearts, and our helping hands, are with the people of Turkey and northwest Syria in the weeks and months ahead.”

To learn more about the grant or to support American Humane’s lifesaving work, please visit AmericanHumane.org.

American Humane
Founded in 1877, American Humane is committed to helping ensure the safety, welfare and well-being of animals, and our leadership programs are first to serve in promoting and nurturing the bonds between animals and people. For more information or to support our work, please visit www.americanhumane.org and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.