Oxfam is raising funds to support communities impacted by the powerful earthquake that hit the west coast of Colombia on August 10. More than 250 people have been killed, more than 2,000 have been injured, and homes, buildings, roads and water supply systems have been destroyed or damaged.
As part of the emergency response, Oxfam is liaising with longstanding local partner organizations and allies, who have in-depth knowledge of the communities, their needs, dynamics, and capabilities.
Local organizations are key players in any humanitarian response. Their knowledge of the area enables them to identify needs, understand the impacts of an emergency more accurately, and help ensure that response actions are relevant, timely and in line with community priorities.
“In an emergency, responding does not simply mean acting quickly; it means, above all, listening to those experiencing the situation and recognizing the expertise of the organizations that have historically supported their communities. That is why we are working closely with partner and allied organizations in Chocó and Buenaventura to understand the needs and potential gaps in the response, placing the voices and priorities of the communities at the center,” says María Rodríguez, Project Coordinator at Oxfam Colombia.
Public support will help Oxfam and its partners in Colombia deliver clean water, food and critical supplies to the people of the area. Donate to Oxfam’s Colombia earthquake response here.