Ocean State Job Lot Ships $1 Million Worth Of Supplies For Turkey, Syria Earthquake Relief

NORTH KINGSTOWN, RI — Following the death of more than 40,000 people in earthquakes that shook Turkey and Syria, Ocean State Job Lot donated supplies to help with the disaster relief.

The North Kingstown-based retailer recently donated and coordinated the shipment of more than $1 million worth of essential supplies to help those impacted by the deadly earthquakes, a company spokesperson said Thursday.

Ocean State Job Lot partnered with its customers to donate more than 35 types of items ,including tents, blankets, coats, sweaters, socks, and health and hygiene products such as sanitizers, soap, and alcohol wipes.

"We are deeply saddened by the news of the catastrophic earthquakes that claimed the lives of so many in Turkey and Syria," David Sarlitto, the executive director of the retailer's charitable foundation, said. "As residents work toward recovery while enduring the worst of the winter elements, we are humbled to provide what assistance we can and thank our generous customers for their support."

A company spokesperson said all the donated supplies were purchased at cost, partly through donations made by customers at Ocean State Job Lot stores and online.

Monetary donations are still being accepted in-store and online at Ocean State Job Lot's website