KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Soon after communities in Syria and Turkey were devastated by a deadly earthquake, a Knoxville restaurant owner worked quickly to raise funds to help those impacted by the disaster.
Yassin Terou, the owner of Yassin's Falafel House, was part of a team visiting the Turkey-Syria border, helping serve meals and providing medical care. Since then, he has documented his journey on social media.
On February 6th, He started an online fundraiser in collaboration with non-profit organizations like Syria Relief and Development and Celebrate Mercy. Since then, the fundraiser has raised $205,678 from donors.
As he returned to Knoxville, Yassin said there is more work to be done to make sure resources reach everyone in need. Right now, donations are closed but Yassin said they are in the planning phases for another fundraiser to help the people in Turkey and Syria.