Following the magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck Colombia on 10 August, the Universal Church quickly mobilised to support those affected and assist the teams responding to the disaster.
As the needs of local communities became more evident, all 171 Universal Churches across Colombia have been serving as donation collection points, gathering food and other essential items for families affected by the earthquake.
By the morning of Tuesday 11 August, just 24 hours after the disaster, 45 tonnes of groceries had already been collected, with support reaching Bogotá and the departments of Risaralda, Caldas and Valle del Cauca, particularly the cities of Pereira, Manizales and Cali.
The donations are helping to address some of the most urgent needs in these areas. Many residents have been left without electricity and drinking water, while non-perishable food, personal hygiene products and other basic necessities are also in short supply.
One of the cities most severely affected is Cali, where at least 30 buildings collapsed. In the El Refugio neighbourhood, 17 volunteers were monitoring the situation, supporting rescue groups and assisting families who remained in the area.
One of the most urgent needs has been access to clean drinking water, which volunteers have been working to provide. Bottled water was distributed at different locations across the city, benefiting 350 people. The volunteers are also supporting those working on the frontline of the emergency, providing breakfast and lunch to brigade members involved in rescue operations and caring for victims.
Beyond Cali, volunteers have also been working in Pereira, the capital of Risaralda, assisting families in need. Soon after the earthquake, they took to the streets to support people who had been left homeless.
Throughout the day, 250 meals were distributed, along with clothing, medicine and nappies. For families who had lost their homes or were unable to return to them, this practical support offered some relief during an uncertain and difficult time.
However, the need for assistance is expected to continue. With many buildings partially or completely destroyed, residents remain fearful of further tremors, while communities face the difficult task of rebuilding their lives.
As recovery begins, the Universal Church remains committed to supporting families and working alongside the teams helping Colombia recover from the devastation.
Sources:
https://edition.cnn.com/2026/08/10/americas/colombia-earthquake-intl
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c20e360lx0vo
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