Turkish Oklahoman Helping Loved Ones In Hometown After Massive Earthquakes

After devastation from the massive earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, a Turkish Oklahoman is doing what she can to help her thousands of loved ones back at home.

Sevim Cumpian left Turkey in 2003 and started a new life here in Oklahoma.

When she heard the news of the recent earthquakes in her hometown, Sevim's heart broke.

She said friends and family in Turkey are without shelter, money, identification, and many other necessary items.

Sevim told News 9 that back in Turkey, families are much larger with nine uncles and seven aunts on just her father’s side.

Right now, over 300 of those family members have died from the earthquakes.

She said things are so bleak, the country can’t keep up with the deaths.

Family members are having to bury bodies in a field in Sevim’s father’s village.

"They sent me a video and when I watched that, my heart broke," Cumpian said. "The government isn't setting up anything yet. They just find them and bury." 

Sevim owns a Turkish food truck and with one of her customer’s help, she created a GoFundMe to help her struggling family.

She plans to deliver the over $6,000 raised so far herself later in March.

To donate, click here.