Joint Statement from Mayor's Office for International Affairs and Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs on Earthquake in Colombia

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 11, 2026
Contact: Benjamin Fang-Estrada, bfang@moia.nyc.gov

NEW YORK – Today, New York City Mayor's Office for International Affairs Commissioner Ana María Archila and Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs Commissioner Faiza N. Ali released the following joint statement in response to the deadly earthquake that struck on Aug. 10, impacting Colombia.

“Our hearts are with New Yorkers who have lost loved ones, are searching for missing relatives and friends, and are navigating the aftermath of Monday’s devastating earthquake. Though the disaster zone is thousands of miles away, we know this tragedy hits home for New York City’s Colombian communities, who are anxiously waiting to hear whether their loved ones are safe during this difficult time.

“As we learn more about the full impact of this tragedy, our offices will coordinate with partners and connect New Yorkers with resources. We will continue to support New Yorkers who are searching for their parents, children, siblings and other loved ones in the coming weeks.

“We encourage New Yorkers to donate to trusted relief efforts, check in on friends and loved ones and support their neighbors in this trying time. Solidarity is what gets us through the worst of times, and as New Yorkers, we know that in our darkest moments, it is the care we show one another that pulls us through.”

For those seeking assistance or information

To conduct family tracing and emergency assistance:

• Contact the Colombian Red Cross, which can guide you through its Family Ties Protection Program. If you have questions, email rcf@cruzrojacolombiana.org or contact the Colombian Red Cross via WhatsApp at (+57) 321-213-9525.
• Begin a search through the American Red Cross by submitting an International Reconnecting Families Inquiry Form. If you have questions about the form or Restoring Family Links services, please call American Red Cross’ free national helpline at 844-782-9441.
  • Para iniciar una busqueda, complete el formulario. Si tiene preguntas sobre el formulario o sobre los servicios de Restablecimiento de Contacto Familiar, por favor llame a la línea de ayuda nacional gratuita de la Cruz Roja Americana al 844-782-9441.

To support relief efforts:

• Those wishing to help those affected by the earthquakes can donate through trusted humanitarian organizations, including:

Colombian Red Cross