News of the devastating earthquake that hit Myanmar and neighboring countries is prominent all over social media. Videos of nurses in a maternity ward in China clinging to newborn babies in their arms and falling to the floor as the hospital shook are viral online. With the death toll reaching over 3,000, this earthquake is one of the deadliest in centuries. Homes and buildings have been destroyed, with one victim trapped for more than 30 hours before being spotted by rescue crews.
The citizens of Myanmar have lost their loved ones and their homes, and rescue teams are continuing to work day and night to uncover the rubble for survivors. The country is in a humanitarian crisis, and many are wondering how they can help the residents through this dark time.
About The Earthquake(s)
On March 28, 2025, a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar, causing widespread destruction and profound loss. The epicenter was near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city. 12 minutes after the first, a second 6.4-magnitude earthquake struck, with its epicenter near the city of Sagaing. These earthquakes resulted in over 3,300 deaths and injured more than 5,000 people. These numbers are only expected to get bigger, with experts estimating the number of deaths to exceed 10,000. More than 300 people are missing.
Tremors from both earthquakes were felt in neighboring countries Thailand and China, where additional casualties occurred. At the time of writing this post, we know that 21 people have lost their lives in Thailand, with most deaths occurring inside a high-rise building that fell to the ground. Many families are requesting the government for help in locating missing loved ones, and in retrieving others from mountains of rubble. Some of the most impacted regions in Myanmar are in a state of emergency.
The disaster has left millions in urgent need of assistance. The United Nations reports that the earthquake affected over nine million people, with thousands of buildings, including hospitals and schools, reduced to rubble. Aftershocks continue to rattle the nearby regions, accentuating the country’s already dire humanitarian crisis.
Additionally, the country’s political conflict is affecting humanitarian aid efforts, since Myanmar is currently under the control of various resistance groups and the military. This means that up-to-date news about the earthquake is hard to acquire due to restrictions on all media entering Myanmar. Aid has been allowed into the country, with many neighboring countries pitching in and assisting in relief efforts. Although, it is taking longer than usual for the aid to arrive due to damaged roads and infrastructure.
Its safe to say that the country needs all the help it can get.
How You Can Get Involved
As Calgarians, we can try making a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by this tragedy. Here are some ways you and your loved ones can help:
1. Donate to Reputable Organizations:
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Samaritan’s Purse Canada: They have set up an Emergency Field Hospital and relief teams to provide urgent care to earthquake victims in Myanmar. Donations support medical assistance and essential supplies.
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Penny Appeal Canada: This organization has deployed an emergency response to deliver humanitarian aid, including food, water, shelter, and medical assistance to those affected by the earthquake.
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World Vision Canada: World Vision is actively assessing the impact and assisting in emergency relief efforts, aiming to support approximately 500,000 people, including at least 200,000 children, with vital aid.
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Canadian Red Cross: The Canadian Red Cross is fundraising to support relief efforts in Myanmar, providing essentials like water, sanitation equipment, non-perishable food, blankets, household items, and tents.
2. Raise Awareness:
Whether its informing your friends and family or your Instagram followers, sharing news about the tragedy and ways to help will allow you to make an impact. Use your social media platforms to inform people about the earthquake’s impact and the ongoing relief efforts. You could even host local events to raise awareness and funds, such as a bake sale in your school. Any donation helps the citizens in need.
3. Volunteer Your Time:
You can reach out to local organizations and community groups in Calgary that are organizing support for Myanmar. Furthermore, you can assist with fundraising events or awareness campaigns. Many organizations offer virtual volunteering opportunities, such as helping with the digital marketing to support relief efforts.
4. Advocate for Support:
Advocacy can lead to increased funding and resources for disaster relief. Inform organizations you work with or your school about the tragedy and see how they can take action. Spread information about the earthquake and its impact and foster a sense of responsibility among your peers. This blog post is an example of advocacy! Encourage people to donate and get involved, just like you are.
Conclusions
The earthquake in Myanmar has created a profound humanitarian crisis that requires immediate and sustained support. As Calgarians, we have the means to make a significant difference through donations, awareness-raising, volunteering, and advocacy. By coming together, we can provide essential aid and hope to those affected by this tragedy. We can stand in solidarity with the people of Myanmar while contributing to their recovery and rebuilding efforts.