On Monday, August 11, 2026, a 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia, causing widespread damage across multiple communities. Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is supporting Caritas Colombia and its nationwide diocesan and parish network as they respond to this devastating disaster.
Many families are in urgent need of shelter, clean water, food, medical care, protection, and other essential assistance. Our prayers are with all those who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods, as well as with the communities facing uncertainty in the days ahead.
Through its trusted network of dioceses and parishes, Caritas Colombia has a vital presence in affected communities. In times of crisis, the local Church is often among the first to respond—accompanying families, offering refuge and care, identifying immediate needs, and mobilizing assistance through trusted relationships.
The reach of the local Church, strengthened by the solidarity of the global Church, is especially powerful in moments like these.
Your gift can help provide emergency relief to families affected by this disaster, including shelter, food, clean water, protection, and other urgent support as they begin to recover and rebuild.
How You Can Help
If you would like to help our brothers and sisters in Colombia, please make your check payable to:
Diocese of Saginaw
Attn: Maria Coss
5800 Weiss St.
Saginaw, MI 48605
Please write “Colombia Earthquake” in the memo line.
For questions, please contact Maria Coss at (989) 797-6646.
100% of donations received through this appeal will go directly toward helping survivors recover and rebuild.
Please Join Us in Prayer
In that same spirit of solidarity, we invite you to join us in prayer for our sisters and brothers in Colombia:
Our Lady of Chiquinquirá, patroness of Colombia, protect and pray for our sisters and brothers affected by this earthquake. Comfort those who have lost loved ones and homes, strengthen those who are suffering, and guide those who are working to bring relief and hope. May our prayers and generosity remind the people of Colombia that they are not alone. Amen.
Thank you for joining us in prayer, compassion, and solidarity with our sisters and brothers in Colombia.