As communities across western Colombia continue to recover from the devastating earthquake earlier this month, Salesians are expanding their relief efforts to support both affected families and the emergency workers responding on the front lines.
In Cali, one of the areas hardest hit by the disaster, students from the Don Bosco Training Centre’s catering program have been preparing and distributing meals to communities impacted by the earthquake. What began as vocational training has become an opportunity to serve others in their time of greatest need.
Salesian teams are also supporting first responders working long hours in challenging conditions. Fr Adolfo Romero reported that more than 200 breakfasts were recently prepared for rescue workers, along with rehydration drinks, ice and other supplies to assist recovery efforts.
Further west in Buenaventura, Salesians are supporting vulnerable families through Casa Bosconia, a long-standing outreach program serving children, young people and mothers. Many families who were already facing hardship before the earthquake have now lost their homes or are unable to return to them.
In response, Salesians have begun distributing food and hygiene supplies while coordinating support for those most affected. During this first phase of the emergency response, plans are underway to assist around 1,200 people through the distribution of 500 food parcels, 500 hygiene kits and 100 emergency shelter kits.
As recovery efforts continue, Salesians remain committed to accompanying children, families and communities every step of the way, providing practical support, hope and solidarity in the aftermath of the disaster.
You can help Salesians continue this vital work by supporting our Colombia Earthquake Appeal.
