What to do to help in response to the earthquake in Colombia

The U.S. Agency for International Development encourages the public to contact directly those private voluntary organizations that are currently working in/with local affiliates in Colombia and South America to provide monetary donations. Organizations experienced in disaster relief can provide critically needed material and assistance in the most coordinated and effective manner. A list of private voluntary organizations may be obtained by contacting InterAction at:

Individuals interested in receiving guidance on how to provide specific, technical relief services or supplies should contact Volunteers in Technical Assistance's Disaster Information Center for information and guidelines. VITA can be reached at:

We greatly appreciate the generosity of the people of the United States. To ensure that the most urgent needs are met, we encourage concerned citizens to provide monetary contributions to appropriate organizations rather than collecting clothing and other items for donation.

The ability to transport relief supplies is limited by infrastructure damage and continuing weather constraints, making it difficult to move supplies into the affected country. We need to be sure that our first response efforts are focused on the immediate crisis and reach individuals in the most urgent need. Therefore, it is essential that donations be prioritized to meet the needs of the crisis. Unfortunately, the U.S. government does not have the capacity to pay to move donated goods or volunteers.

For guidance on how to provide specific, technical relief services or supplies call VITA:

For private sector donations and businesses wanting to help, call the USAID Emergency Response Business Desk:

For general information on how you can help, or to ensure a financial contribution is routed effectively, call USAID:

Washington, D.C.
February 1, 1999

A la página de Comunicados 1997-2002
A la página de la A.I.D.