Taiwan Earthquake Response

SITUATION REPORT: April 4, 2024

The eastern coast of Taiwan, near Hualien, was struck by a powerful 7.2-magnitude earthquake on Wednesday morning, April 3rd, 8 a.m. local time. Considered the strongest to hit Taiwan in 25 years, the quake was followed by several powerful aftershocks—one at 6.5 magnitude. The damage was significant, resulting in the heavy damage and collapse of several high-rise buildings. The earthquake also prompted a tsunami warning in Japan and neighboring areas, though it has since been lifted.

As of this report, nine people have lost their lives, the number of injured climbed to more than 1,000 people, approximately 600 people are stranded in the east part of Taiwan, and more than 3 dozen are still reported missing. The quake triggered massive landslides in the mountainous region of Hualien, causing some buildings to tilt dangerously, making rescue efforts increasingly more challenging. The local government and rescue workers have been mobilized to help the survivors. As recovery operations continue, authorities are striving to reach those still trapped and address the widespread impact of the quake, which has left communities in Hualien and beyond in need of urgent support.

Photo courtesy of Johnson Lai/AP

IMMEDIATE NEEDS

In the aftermath, the most pressing needs are providing emergency shelter, medical care, and essential supplies for those affected. Ongoing rescue operations focus on individuals trapped in debris and rubble and provide immediate medical treatment for the injured. Further needs include emergency food aid, psycho-social support, and temporary education facilities to replace the damaged schools. Medium-term recovery and rehabilitation work is also planned.

CURRENT PROGRAMS & PARTNERS

Give2Asia is actively engaged in establishing and fostering partnerships with organizations dedicated to supporting relief and recovery efforts. During the current emergency response phase, Give2Asia is channeling its support towards various program priorities in collaboration with its partners. This includes addressing immediate basic needs such as the provision of food, clean water, and health services. Additionally, efforts are being directed towards ensuring access to education for children and providing economic rehabilitation services.

Taiwan People Foodbank Association

Founded in 2011 and the only certified member of The Global FoodBanking Network in Taiwan, Taiwan People’s Food Bank Association (hereinafter referred to as TPFBA) aims to achieve “No Waste, No Hunger” throughout Taiwan island-wide. TPFBA encourages the public to donate surplus food, which is then distributed for free to over 200 non-profit social welfare organizations in Taiwan island-wide, giving away over 200 metric tons of food yearly.

Mental Health Association in Taiwan

Founded in 1955, The Mental Health Association in Taiwan (MHAT) has cooperated with several government agencies in pursuit of improving mental health service provisions for different target populations. MHAT is engaged in the promotion of mental health for all, including mental health awareness, mental illness prevention, and the development of treatment and intervention.

Since the devastating Chi Chi earthquake on September 21, 1999, MHAT has actively engaged in disaster mental health. Our commitment persisted during the 2009 Typhoon Morakot Flooding and the 2016 Tainan Earthquake in Taiwan. MHAT played a crucial role in disaster reduction and preparedness, swiftly providing emotional support to those coping with loss and trauma.

In response to the 0403 Hualien earthquake, MHAT promptly issued a press release emphasizing the importance of addressing and coping with shock and loss. All services should be tailored based on disaster victim classification. In addition, based on the theory of bibliotherapy, we’ve carefully chosen emotional healing materials, like picture books and music, to alleviate negative emotions such as loss, fear, and sorrow triggered by the recent earthquake disaster. These materials are now available on our association’s official website.

The Mustard Seed Mission (MSM)

The Mustard Seed Mission (MSM), Taiwan’s pioneering local social welfare organization, is deeply engaged in childcare, youth empowerment, and supportive family services. Following the 7.2 magnitude earthquake, MSM has been at the forefront, in collaboration with the Hualien County Government, initiating emergency shelter and care services for the affected. In addition, MSM is facilitating evacuations, providing essential supplies and financial aid to survivors, and coordinating recovery efforts, including housing repairs and long-term support, to assist communities in rebuilding and recovery.

Huashan Social Welfare Foundation

Huashan Social Welfare Foundation serves underprivileged elderly in Taiwan, operating 400 “community half-way stations” around Taiwan. Following the earthquake, each of Huashan’s community half-way stations sent teams to visit the 30,000 elders they serve, providing evaluation of the houses and beginning repairs. They also educate and support beneficiaries in aftershock preparedness.

HOW TO GIVE

All donations received by Give2Asia will help affected communities in Taiwan. Give2Asia will publish more details on the needs emerging in the coming days and weeks—and report on every dollar granted for relief and recovery. 

Click the “Donate” button above to make a credit card donation. For large gifts or corporate giving opportunities, please get in touch with our international giving team.