Turkish barber in Kildare donating till takings to earthquake victims

A Turkish barber living in Kildare is handing over the proceeds of all haircuts on this Sunday to earthquake victims in his homeland.

Ibrahim Kurta of the "Paddy the Turk" premises in Naas  has already collected 45 tonnes of humanitarian supplies such as tents and blankets which were delivered to the Turkish embassy in Dublin.

Now the barber, who has lived in Ireland for 18 years, is donating a day's takings to the quake appeal.

He said: "100% of proceeds taken on Sunday, February 26 will be donated to the victims of the earthquake.

"Please come along and get your hair done or simply leave a donation if you don't want a cut at the moment.

"Free tea and coffee will also be on offer, so pop in on Sunday for a cuppa and a cut for a good cause."

Ibrahim, who is also running a GoFundMe fundraising page, said: "Funds will be used for medical supplies, and to rebuild the lives of people whose lives are in ruins."

He previously told the Leinster Leader of the impact of the earthquake on his fellow citizens.

He said: "I looked into travelling there in order to help, but unfortunately I can’t get there, as the roads are all ripped up, so I am now here trying my best to do all I can to help. I would go in a heartbeat."
He continued: "I have friends in the affected area, who woke up in the middle of the night, and just got out of their home when it collapsed in front of them."
"There is despair in their voices. They are seeing family, friends, and neighbours trapped, and in some cases, feared dead. 
"The relief effort is now about getting people to safety and providing them with warmth, as it is extremely cold over there at the moment."