Shakira, Karol G, J Balvin and More Rally for Colombia Following Devastating Earthquake

Colombia’s entertainment community is rallying around its homeland following the devastating 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck western Colombia on Monday, Aug. 10, leaving widespread destruction and launching a massive search-and-rescue effort.

Some of the country’s biggest international stars have turned to their social platforms to express solidarity with those affected and draw attention to the growing humanitarian need. Shakira, Karol G, J Balvin, Maluma, Sofia Vergara and Feid are among the Colombian artists lending their voices to the response as images of collapsed buildings and displaced families continue to emerge.

The tragedy has resonated especially strongly throughout the Latin music community. For a generation of Colombian performers who have taken the country’s music and culture to a global audience, the focus is now firmly back home.

Meanwhile, rescue crews continue searching damaged communities, with the full extent of the disaster still unfolding.

How to Help

Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), the Miami-based international disaster relief organization, has launched a dedicated Colombia earthquake response and says its teams have already deployed to coordinate humanitarian aid, emergency supplies and local support.

GEM is accepting financial donations for its Colombia earthquake mission. Its Doral headquarters also offers volunteer opportunities, where participants can assist with preparing humanitarian aid and Family Necessities Kits.

The Colombian Red Cross is another established humanitarian organization through which people can support relief efforts.

Those wishing to contribute are encouraged to donate through verified organizations and official relief campaigns rather than unconfirmed fundraisers circulating on social media.

As Colombia faces the difficult days of rescue and recovery ahead, its biggest stars are helping ensure that the people affected by the disaster are not forgotten — and that their calls for help are heard far beyond Colombia’s borders.