On Monday 10 August, a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia, causing widespread destruction across the region. Entire communities have been affected, with hundreds reported dead and many more injured, displaced, or left without access to essential services.
Among those impacted are communities where Salesians of Don Bosco live, work and serve every day. These local Don Bosco communities are part of the fabric of the region, accompanying children, young people and families through schools, parishes, youth centres and social outreach programs. The human impact is also being felt deeply across the Don Bosco community, with one reported loss of life connected to the Salesian mission in the Eje Cafetero and many staff members losing their homes or being forced to leave unsafe buildings.
Initial assessments show that 12 Don Bosco communities have sustained significant damage, disrupting services that thousands of vulnerable people rely on. To ensure the safety of students, young people and the wider community, Salesians have temporarily suspended activities at affected sites while urgent assessments and recovery planning continue. Early reports also point to major infrastructure damage, with around 60% of buildings affected in the Medellín Province and around 40% in the Bogotá Province.
Salesians are already on the ground with affected communities.
From the first hours of the emergency, local Salesians began supporting affected families, checking on children and young people, assessing urgent needs, and helping communities take the first steps toward recovery.
- Emergency shelter for displaced families left without a safe place to stay.
- Food, clean water and essential supplies for those who have lost homes, belongings and access to basic necessities.
- Pastoral care and accompaniment for children, young people and families facing trauma, grief and uncertainty.
- Support for Salesian schools, parishes, youth centres and community programs so vital services can continue as communities recover.
Their presence has become a source of hope in the darkest hours, reminding families who are struggling that they are not alone. As recovery begins, Salesians will continue walking alongside affected communities, helping them rebuild with dignity, resilience and care.
Be Part of This Mission
The Salesians in Colombia have made an urgent appeal to support affected communities, accompany families in need, and ensure that vital educational, pastoral and social services can continue in the aftermath of the earthquake.
You can be part of this mission and support the Salesian relief efforts in Colombia by donating today.