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- How to help after Colombia’s devastating earthquake (apnews.com)
Just weeks after twin earthquakes struck Venezuela, Colombia faced its own devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake on Monday, impacting a vast region in the country’s west. The tremor shook urban centers such as Cali and Pereira, as well as remote, rugged areas of the Chocó department.
As of Thursday evening, authorities have confirmed over 280 fatalities, thousands of injuries, and nearly 11,000 homes destroyed. Rescue teams have saved close to 350 people, yet many remain unaccounted for. The scale of the disaster has prompted urgent search and relief efforts across a wide geographic area.
Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has pledged a strong governmental response to address the crisis. Nevertheless, the extensive needs for shelter, supplies, and financial aid mean that humanitarian organizations will play a crucial role in supporting affected communities.
Despite Colombia’s relatively stronger democratic and civic institutions compared to Venezuela, the breadth of the affected zones complicates relief operations. Catalina Vargas, country director for CARE, emphasized that institutional strength alone does not eliminate urgent humanitarian needs. She noted that Chocó, the hardest-hit area, is one of Colombia’s most isolated and underserved regions, making access a significant challenge.
Humanitarian leaders encourage donations in the form of cash to maximize flexibility and speed in delivering aid. Abe Diaz, head of disaster relief for Amazon, cautioned against unrequested product donations, which can overwhelm local responders and divert critical resources.
Several U.S.-based organizations are already active on the ground in Colombia:
- All Hands and Hearts: Providing search and rescue equipment and essential supplies like blankets and rehydration packs.
- CARE: Offering food assistance through cash and vouchers, emergency care packages, and emotional support for families.
- Direct Relief: Funding medical teams and preparing to deliver medications and healthcare supplies.
- GEM: Partnering with local groups to distribute food, water, and hygiene kits.
- Operation Blessing: Supplying food, water, and solar lanterns for displaced individuals.
- Save the Children: Providing psychosocial support and establishing child-friendly spaces.
- World Central Kitchen: Delivering meals and water to displaced people, responders, and volunteers, including in remote mountain communities.
On Sunday, August 16, an international benefit concert will be held at Miami’s Kaseya Center to support earthquake relief efforts in Colombia and Venezuela. Latin music stars such as Marc Anthony, Luis Fonsi, and Chayanne will perform.
The event will be broadcast live on multiple platforms, with donations accepted through on-screen QR codes, text messages, and online channels. Proceeds will benefit All Hands and Hearts, CARE, GEM, TECHO, and World Central Kitchen.
In addition, several Colombia-based organizations are accepting international donations to aid recovery:
- Abaco Colombia: A network of 26 food banks distributing meals across affected areas.
- Cruz Roja Colombiana (Colombian Red Cross): Conducting search and rescue, medical care, and psychosocial support.
- Fundación Solidaridad por Colombia: Supporting youth and community relief initiatives.
- Fundación Semillas de Oportunidades: Assisting youth in Chocó through arts and sports programs.
- Manos Visibles: Working on home reconstruction projects in Buenaventura.
- Presentes Corporation: Partnering with U.S.-based Give to Colombia to channel donations.
- Refugio Huellas de Amor and Huellitas Callejeras Barranquilla: Providing veterinary care and supplies for animals affected by the earthquake.
The ongoing response highlights the significant humanitarian challenges posed by the earthquake, especially in isolated regions. Coordinated efforts from government, international aid groups, and local organizations remain critical as recovery operations continue.
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- How to help after Colombia’s devastating earthquake (apnews.com)