Canada provides humanitarian assistance in response to earthquake in Colombia
News release
August 26, 2026 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada
Canada stands in solidarity with the people of Colombia following the August 10 earthquake, which has resulted in tragic loss of life and extensive damage to homes, infrastructure and communities. With hundreds of thousands of people affected, humanitarian efforts must be scaled up to ensure that life-saving assistance reaches those who need it the most.
Today, the Honourable Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development), announced that Canada is providing more than $2 million in funding to support emergency relief efforts in response to the earthquake. The funding is allocated as follows:
- $1.4 million to the World Food Programme for emergency food assistance and logistics services
- $350,000 through the Canadian Humanitarian Assistance Fund to Canadian Lutheran World Relief, a member of the Humanitarian Coalition, to provide relief items, including emergency shelter kits, as well as water, sanitation and hygiene services
- $250,000 through the Emergency Disaster Assistance Fund, which is administered by the Canadian Red Cross, to support the Colombian Red Cross’ ongoing relief operations
- $50,000 through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives to build emergency housing and provide food and hygiene kits
This funding for emergency response builds on the almost $8.5 million in funding for ongoing humanitarian assistance that was allocated by Canada earlier this year to respond to ongoing humanitarian needs in Colombia.
Canada continues to monitor the situation and remains in close contact with experienced humanitarian partners to assess and respond to evolving needs.
Quotes
“At this difficult time, Canada stands with the people of Colombia. Canada is supporting efforts to help meet immediate humanitarian needs and assist the communities hit hardest by the disaster.”
- Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development)
“Through this humanitarian assistance, Canada is supporting trusted partners in delivering life-saving aid to those affected by this devastating earthquake. Canada stands with the people of Colombia and is committed to helping communities respond to this crisis.”
- Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Quick facts
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In addition to the new funding, Canada and its development partners are reallocating existing resources to support earthquake-affected communities by providing emergency supplies, technical assistance, care services, psychosocial support and protection for women and girls. Canada is also working with development partners, local authorities and the private sector to coordinate relief efforts and support long-term recovery.
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Canada is a key donor to the UN Central Emergency Response Fund, which has provided a US$5-million allocation to the humanitarian response in Colombia. This year, Canada has provided more than $29 million to the fund.
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Canada is also a donor to the Disaster Response Emergency Fund of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. This year, Canada has contributed $5 million to the fund. In response to the earthquake, the fund has allocated 1 million in Swiss francs to support the Colombian Red Cross in delivering immediate, life-saving assistance.
Contacts
Shanti Cosentino
Director of Communications
Office of the Secretary of State (International Development)
Shanti.Cosentino@international.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Global Affairs Canada
media@international.gc.ca
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