New Zealand Red Cross launches appeal for people affected by Colombia earthquake

New Zealand Red Cross has launched an Emergency Appeal to support people affected by the devastating magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck western Colombia on Monday 10 August (Tuesday 11 August NZT).  

The earthquake struck near San José del Palmar in the Chocó region and was felt widely across Colombia and neighbouring countries, including Ecuador and Panama.  

It has caused widespread damage across western Colombia, including in Chocó, Valle del Cauca and the coffee-growing region. Buildings have collapsed or been damaged in cities including Cali, Pereira and Manizales. Damage to roads, telecommunications and other infrastructure is making it difficult to reach some affected communities. 

More than 175 people are reported to have died, and 2,500 people are injured. Search and rescue operations remain the immediate priority, with emergency teams working to locate people trapped under collapsed buildings and reach communities close to the epicentre.  

Families have been left without shelter, while damage and disruption to infrastructure is affecting access to essential services in some areas.  

“Our thoughts are with all those who have been impacted by this devastating earthquake,” says Sarah Stuart-Black, Secretary General of New Zealand Red Cross. 

“Communities face immense challenges as emergency responders work around the clock to find survivors and support people whose lives have been upended.”  

The Colombian Red Cross (Cruz Roja Colombiana) has been responding since the earthquake struck. Teams are working in affected areas and alongside authorities and other members of Colombia's National System for Disaster Risk Management to provide humanitarian assistance and support where it is most needed. 

New Zealand Red Cross has launched the Colombia Earthquake Emergency Appeal to support the humanitarian response. Funds raised through the Emergency Appeal will help provide humanitarian assistance based on the needs of affected communities. This may include emergency relief, health services, safe drinking water, emergency shelter, psychosocial support and other essential assistance.  

“People across New Zealand can help by donating to the appeal, supporting the vital work underway and helping communities through the difficult days and weeks ahead,” says Sarah Stuart-Black.  

Donate today: 

Finding family members in Colombia:  

If you have lost contact with family members in Colombia, please contact our Restoring Family Links service. We work with our Movement partners internationally to trace and reconnect family members.
Restoring Family Links information 

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