SCIAF launches Emergency Appeal for Colombia

SCIAF has launched an emergency appeal to help those affected by the 7.4 magnitude earthquake in Colombia. 

The earthquake struck in the remote Chocó region of Colombia, where SCIAF has active projects. 

The tragedy has killed at least 132 people, with more than 570 injured. It’s also thought that around 1,700 homes have been damaged by the quake, with health centres, education institutes and community centres affected. These figures are likely to increase as information comes in from the most remote areas where communication has broken down.

Geraldine Hill is SCIAF’s Programme Officer for Colombia and lived in the Latin American country for two years. SCIAF has been working in Colombia since the 1980s.

Geraldine said:

"It’s heart-breaking to see communities in Chocó bear the brunt of this latest earthquake. These communities are already very poor and live surrounded by violence, the earthquake is just the latest challenge to confront them. Once again SCIAF’s local partners are responding as soon as the crisis happens. We have immediately released £10,000 for partners and are liaising closely with them to determine how best to help. 

“Through our partners in Chocó, we can immediately reach out to those most in need. Our local Caritas partners are already there, working tirelessly to provide emergency relief where it’s needed the most. Please support this response through SCIAF’s appeal.”  

A prayer for the communities in Colombia: 

Loving Lord,
 
We pray for our sisters and brothers in Colombia 
amidst the devastation and disruption.
 
We ask that through the damage and despair, Your light can shine through; 
that the response of those working to bring aid can be the hope You promise.
 
Bring comfort to those who grieve,
bring peace to those who are in fear,
bring strength to those who are responding,
and bring hope to all who are affected.
 
May our prayers of comfort reach our sisters and brothers 
in compassion and peace at this time.
 
Amen