Dean's Message on Earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria

February 9, 2023

The OISE community extends its condolences to the people of Türkiye and Syria, and to all those who are mourning the loss of family and friends, and those who have been injured or left homeless after the devastating earthquakes and their horrific aftermath. We know these events are deeply affecting many of our students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends.

We are working with our local partners to organize ways for our community to facilitate efforts overseas and better support our students, faculty, and friends at home. Here are supports that you can access today:

  • U of T Global has provided mental health and academic supports to community members (including OISE students, faculty, staff, and librarians) in their statement: global.utoronto.ca/vice-president-internationals-statement-on-turkiye-and-syria
  • OISE In-Kind Donation Drive: The community is encouraged drop brand new and unused items in the OISE Lobby by the security desk starting next week. The bins should be accessible during building operating hours: Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. All items must be new and could include non-perishable food; winter clothing for adults and children; equipment like tents, blankets, sleeping bags and thermoses; and hygiene items like sanitary napkins and diapers. Our donation bin will be located in the lobby until the end of day on Monday, March 6.
  • U of T students abroad, both Canadian and international citizens, can find resources here: learningabroad.utoronto.ca/safety-abroad/in-an-emergency
  • Please see the Turkish Student Association's Instagram post with info about the earthquake in Türkiye and how you can help: instagram.com/uoft.tsa
  • Faculty, staff and librarians may contact the Employee and Family Assistance Program at 1-855-597-2110
  • To those wishing to make a donation to assist relief efforts,  the Government of Canada will be matching donations made to the Canadian Red Cross between February 6–22.  

We will continue to monitor the situation and update this page soon. 

In sorrow and in strength, please take care, and be well.

Erica N. Walker
Professor and Dean
Ontario Institute for Studies in Education

oise donation drive