SaskTel has announced that it will waive long-distance and text message fees from Canada to Syria and Turkey to ensure its customers can contact loved ones impacted by the recent earthquake.

The plan is effective Thursday and continues through till the end of the month.

“In times of crisis, it’s important that we come together as a community to support those who need it and assist where possible,” said minister responsible for SaskTel Don Morgan in a media release. “To the Turkish and Syrian families who call this province home, please know that Saskatchewan is here for you.”

A magnitude 7.8 earthquake early Tuesday centred in southern Turkey has killed 12,000 people, with hope dwindling to find survivors in the rubble.