De la Espriella announces new contributions for earthquake: these are the main donors

The final day for donations has arrived as authorities in Bogotá urge citizens to contribute urgently needed food supplies and hygiene kits to the El Campín stadium, which serves as the main collection point for aid following the recent earthquake. The effort, coordinated by Asocapitales in partnership with the Colombian Red Cross, has already received over 15,000 boxes of humanitarian assistance directed toward affected municipalities. With the deadline approaching, volunteers and officials stress the importance of adhering strictly to donation guidelines to ensure efficient distribution. The earthquake, which struck on August 10 with a magnitude of 7.4, devastated regions in western Colombia, particularly affecting areas such as the Eje Cafetero. In response, Bogotá’s mayor, Carlos Fernando Galán, announced that more than 1,800 tons of aid have been sent to the hardest-hit zones. He emphasized that the city's solidarity has been remarkable, likening Bogotá to a generous refrigerator always ready to help. However, he warned that the current phase of relief efforts will soon transition into reconstruction, urging continued support through the Red Cross. Volunteers at the El Campín stadium continue to work under strict protocols, sorting and categorizing donations according to pre-established criteria. Donations must include either structured food kits labeled “Mercado” or specific emergency items such as small quantities of salt, sugar, and oil. Hygiene kits, containing essential toiletries, and household essentials like blankets and bedding materials are also being collected. All donated goods must be new and properly labeled to facilitate rapid processing and delivery. Despite the organized efforts, challenges remain. One notable incident occurred on August 16 when a truck carrying humanitarian aid was fined 1.2 million pesos for exceeding weight limits by approximately 60 kilograms. The driver, part of a convoy delivering supplies to the Eje Cafetero, criticized the decision, arguing that the fine undermines the urgency of the situation. The video of the incident went viral, sparking widespread public debate on the balance between compliance with transportation laws and the need for swift aid delivery. Many users expressed outrage over the fine, offering to cover the cost themselves, while others defended the necessity of enforcing regulations for safety reasons. To streamline the donation process, the city has established clear guidelines for contributors. Food kits should include rice, cooking oil, cornmeal, pasta, beans, tuna in cans, sugar, salt, panela, chocolate, and coffee, items packed and labeled with “Donación” or “Mercado.” Emergency individual items consist of small packages of salt, sugar, and oil. Hygiene kits require soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, toilet paper, sanitary wipes, and razors, all marked as “kit de aseo.” For housing-related donations, simple blankets, basic bed sheets, foam mattresses (measuring 1.20 x 1.90 meters), pillows, and awnings are requested, all of which must be brand-new. The logistics operation at El Campín involves multiple organizations, including the Red Cross, Sencia, Corfi Colombiana, and the City Hall of Bogotá. Air photos reveal a well-coordinated system, with trucks and Red Cross units stationed near the stadium and adjacent venues such as the Movistar Arena. Volunteers and staff sort incoming donations, ensuring they meet specifications before dispatching them to affected communities. The operation continues to rely heavily on community contributions, with ongoing calls for further support through official channels. Galán reiterated that physical donations at the El Campín center will cease after this Sunday, shifting focus to other designated locations. He urged residents who wish to continue helping to channel their efforts through the Red Cross, emphasizing that the recovery process is just beginning. Meanwhile, the city plans to release additional information on how it will support reconstruction efforts, focusing on housing, cultural heritage, and public services. The mayor concluded his remarks by thanking those who have contributed, whether through donations or volunteer work, highlighting the strength of Bogotá’s collective spirit.