How to help with earthquake relief effort

There are dozens of options for donating and volunteering to help the victims of Saturday’s earthquake. In addition to CuencaHighLife’s donation option, the proceeds going to registered relief organizations, many groups are collecting money. We do not recommend any in particular; the list of organizations below is offered for donors to choose from. Please conduct your own due diligence when picking an organization to donate to, through cash or goods, or by volunteering.

For many more options, Ecuadorian television stations are posting lists of organizations involved in recovery work.

We were contacted Sunday by an official with the Ministry of Health with a message for expats wishing to volunteer: Do not come to the earthquake zone alone; come with a recognized group. Also, if you do not speak fluent Spanish, make sure the organization you are with can provide translation services.

Organizations accepting donations

Azuay Food Bank (located next to Iglesia Turi)
Click here

Catholic Relief Services
Click here

Cruz Roja Ecuatoriano (Ecuador Red Cross)
Click here

World Vision Ecuador Earthquake Relief Fund
Click here

Hearts of Gold Earthquake Relief Fund
Click here

Azuay Province Prefectura
Accepting rice, canned food, bottled water, and clothing in good condition, at La Casa de la Provincia, corner Simon Bolivar and Tomás Ordoñez, west side of Parque San Blas.

Ecuador Finance Ministry
National and International donations deposited in the ministry’s bank account.
Click here

Supermaxi
There are donation areas at all of Cuenca’s Supermaxi grocery stores.