“The earthquake is considered the most severe to hit Colombia in a long time. Initial reports from the field indicate that colleagues of our contacts are currently searching for family members who live in the affected area,” reports humedica Board Member Johannes Peter. He is in contact with local partner organizations.
According to the latest reports, more than 130 people have lost their lives in western Colombia as a result of the 7.4-magnitude earthquake. Experts believe this number may still rise. Many people were buried under rubble when buildings collapsed and are currently listed as missing.
To be able to help, humedica relies on donations. “Without the support of people here in Germany, our aid efforts would not be possible,” Peter urges. Anyone wishing to donate can do so on humedica’s website, specifying “Colombia Earthquake” as the donation purpose.
Just under two months ago, more than 6,000 people lost their lives in neighboring Venezuela during two severe earthquakes that struck in quick succession. There, humedica continues to provide assistance in partnership with the Lutheran World Federation’s relief agency and has, among other things, delivered wound care supplies and medications from Germany to treat approximately 10,000 people. “In addition, many people in Venezuela are still living in emergency shelters today. Our partner organization is providing them with basic necessities,” Peter concluded.