Holmdel Student Leads Aid Drive For Victims Of Turkey Earthquake

HOLMDEL, NJ — Holmdel High School freshman Helen Yilmaz is a native of Turkey who knows firsthand the pain her country is going through.

She and her family emigrated to the United States five years ago. But they were devastated to learn that they had lost family members in the deadly earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria in early February.

Knowing that other family and friends were still in danger, her school said, Helen wanted to turn her grief into something positive and organized a donation drive to support #HelpTurkey.

With the support of Gabrielle Uskach, president of the Key Club at Holmdel High School; Key Club Advisor Lauren Lepore; and Dr. Matt Kukoda, the Holmdel High School principal; along with Superintendent Dr. Scott Cascone, Helen collected essential items for those affected by the earthquake in Turkey and Syria.

“I am proud to say that the Holmdel community came together in an amazing way to support our efforts," Helen said.

"The response was truly overwhelming, and it's incredible to see what we can accomplish when we work together for a common cause," Helen said of her school community.

"I firmly believe that even small differences can make a big impact on people's lives, and my goal was to turn my pain into something better.”

She expressed gratitude to all who donated and hopes her action will inspire others to do the same.

“In a world that can often feel dark and discouraging, it's important to remember that each of us has the power to create light and hope. Thank you once again to the Holmdel community for giving me this opportunity to help my country.”

Anyone wishing to lend their own assistance and support can look into the following
organizations. These have received four-star ratings on Charity Navigator: The Helping Hand for Relief and Development and The Syrian American Medical Society Foundation.