Saturday’s devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Ecuador has left hundreds of people dead, hundreds more injured and thousands without needed supplies. Catholic Relief Services is already at work to deliver help.
There are reports of widespread damage to buildings, roads and the region’s infrastructure. Food, water and emergency shelter is the biggest need at this time.
“Some of the poorest provinces are located near the coast and we expect thousands of people to need immediate help,” said Tom Hollywood, CRS Representative for South America.
Here’s how you can help:
PRAY
As Catholics, we recognize that prayer binds us in solidarity to our neighbors in distress, and connects us more deeply with the grace that flows from God. In times like these, we encourage responses that begin with prayer.
http://www.crs.org/resource-center/prayer-ecuador
- Pray for Ecuador in Español
http://www.crs.org/resource-center/oracion-por-ecuador
LEARN
It is important that we respond to this crisis by staying informed about the Church’s response, the international community’s response and about Ecuador itself.
- Stay updated about CRS’ response to the crisis.
http://www.crs.org/media-center/news-release/deadly-earthquake-strikes-ecuador
- Stay updated about CRS’ response to the crisis in Español.
- Read about CRS’ work in Ecuador.
http://www.crs.org/our-work-overseas/where-we-work/ecuador
ACT
Our Catholic communities are great resources. They can help us speak with one voice on behalf of our global neighbors in need, and can galvanize our neighbors and our governments to respond to this crisis with humanity and effectiveness.