In the wake of the catastrophic 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on March 28, 2025, World Jewish Relief has initiated an emergency appeal to aid the affected communities. The disaster has resulted in thousands of fatalities and widespread destruction, leaving countless individuals without shelter, food, or medical care.
The earthquake’s epicenter was near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, causing significant damage across the region and affecting neighboring countries, including Thailand. Reports indicate that the death toll is expected to rise as rescue operations continue.
World Jewish Relief, drawing upon its extensive experience in international disaster response, has partnered with Swanyee, a trusted organization with over six years of experience working in Myanmar. Together, they aim to provide immediate assistance to the most vulnerable populations by distributing:
- Cash and voucher assistance for emergency shelter
- Hygiene kits containing clean drinking water, soap, and water purification tablets
- Blankets to help keep families warm
- Food packages for the hardest-hit communities
- First aid kits to support local medical units treating the injured
Paul Anticoni, CEO of World Jewish Relief, emphasized the urgency of the situation: “Our response is focused on immediate relief and support, ensuring that we reach those in greatest need as quickly as possible. In times of crisis, it is our responsibility as a community to extend our hands and hearts to those suffering, regardless of nationality or faith.”
Rabbi Jonathan Wittenberg echoed this sentiment, stating, “While supporting Jewish communities in need across the globe, World Jewish Relief upholds the Jewish value of ‘every human life created in God’s image’ by offering a compassionate and swift response wherever people suffer disaster, across all borders of nationality and faith.”
The organization has launched this appeal with the full support of the UK’s leading Jewish communal bodies and invites all who can contribute to the humanitarian response for those affected by the earthquake. Donations can be made online at worldjewishrelief.org/myanmar or by calling 0208 7361250.