My name is James Bedoya, a first-generation American of proud Colombian immigrant parents.

As all Americans who migrated from a different part of the world, we moved from our home countries to find a better life. A fresh start and new opportunities to create a world where we too can be successful. However, as most will tell you, when we migrate, we leave behind neighborhoods we grew up in, schools we learned in, friends we made, and most importantly families and loved ones that we must now love from a distance. Such is the burden of migrating to a different country; you search for a new life but leave behind part of who you are.

On August 10th, 2026, Colombia suffered a tragic 7.4 magnitude earthquake that completely destroyed the cities and neighborhoods our families live in. My friends, family, and distant relatives who live in Cali, Colombia and in the general Choco department, have had their lives changed forever. Myself along with all my fellow Colombian-Americans feel the pain of not being in our home country to help our loved ones rebuild and recover from this devasting event.

I am starting this Go-Fund me to not only support my friends and family, but ALL of the families affected by this tragedy in Cali and the Choco department. I am asking for your financial support in raising funds that would provide an insurmountable amount of aid for those that have lost so much. Keep in mind that any amount helps; 1 USD is the equivalent of 3,000 Colombian Pesos and a local plate of food in Colombia costs about 2 USD. So even if you think it's not much, it means everything to those back home.

These funds will be donated to local non-profit groups and medical groups in Cali and the Choco department, currently finding people still lost, rebuilding local properties and cities, and providing aid to those who lost all of their belongings and even worse, loved ones. These groups need resources and food to provide to the people of Colombia.

If I have ever supported you in some way shape or form, this is the best way to return the favor. I am heartbroken and will only heal when I help my people heal as well. Thank you.