A Transatlantic Appeal
A 7.4‑magnitude earthquake struck Colombia on the weekend, leaving more than 280 people dead and over 3,900 injured, while nearly 12,600 homes were destroyed and another 74,800 damaged across the country.
In response, the men’s and women’s soccer teams of the Chicago Police Department have scheduled a fundraiser for August 23 at the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7, aiming to channel community generosity toward relief efforts.
The event is being coordinated with the 12th annual Colombian Fest Chicago and the nonprofit South Fork United, which will manage donation channels including Zelle transfers to CPDSoccer@gmail.com and mailed checks to the organization’s East Quogue address.
Community Solidarity
Chicago’s Colombian diaspora has used the occasion to share prayers and personal accounts of the disaster, while Colombia’s newly inaugurated president, Abelardo de la Espriella, has urged national mobilization to assist the missing and displaced.
Organizers hope the fundraiser will not only provide financial support but also raise awareness of the ongoing humanitarian needs as rescue operations continue amid a challenging recovery landscape.