HELP US AID COLOMBIA EARTHQUAKE SURVIVOR HOMELESSNESS!

My name is Stephanie and I am part of Mercado Andine (MercadoAndine on Instagram) in NYC. We are a collective that is connecting and reconnecting with our Andean roots. I grew up between Cali, Colombia and the U.S. Over the years, I’ve nurtured friendships and connections in Colombia, especially with land defenders. I try to live in reciprocity to my ancestral land. 

On Monday, August 10, 2026 a magnitude-7.4 quake struck at 07:34 (12:34 GMT) in the Chocó region of Colombia at a depth of 107km (66 miles), according to the US Geological Survey. At least 111 people are dead and dozens more are injured. The earthquake was felt across the country, as well as in neighbouring Venezuela, Ecuador and Panama. The earthquake is affecting millions of people. Dozens of buildings have collapsed, residents are trapped under debris and people have been forced to evacuate their homes. Rescue efforts are under way to free those who have been trapped beneath rubble. Many lost theirs homes and all their possessions. 

We initially created this fundraiser to help support rescue, medical, and food assistance in Colombia. Fortunately, there was a fast response of civilian assistance and rescue sites are now overwhelmed with water, food, and rescue supplies. In an effort to address the homelessness survivors are facing, we will shift our fundraising efforts to assisting survivors with:

• Tents
• Mattresses
• Sleeping bags
• Flashlights
  
• Diapers (for babies and seniors)
• And whatever is needed as needs arise.

Funds will be distributed to directly to trusted local community organizers on the ground who are distributing items that will assist with homelessness.

We will upload pictures of whatever we buy to show you what your money is being used for. 

Thank you for reading this! We invite to join in prayer for our loved ones in Colombia, especially in vulnerable areas like Choco.