Queens Colombian community mobilizes aid after deadly earthquake

A 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, leaving widespread destruction across the country. The quake killed more than 170 people, with at least 3,000 reported missing. Around 1,600 buildings have been reported damaged or collapsed.

Cali, Colombia's third-largest city with approximately 2 million residents, emerged as the most densely populated area affected by the earthquake. Rescue crews are actively working to reach people believed trapped beneath collapsed buildings in Cali and other affected cities including Manizales, where a cathedral split apart.

In Queens, which has one of the largest Colombian American populations in the New York City area, residents are closely monitoring the disaster and its aftermath. Television screens in Colombian bakeries along Roosevelt Avenue in Jackson Heights displayed scenes of devastation, including collapsed structures, people running for cover, and damaged buildings.

Members of the Colombian American community expressed concern for loved ones. Natalia Bernal, who has family in Colombia, said the images filled her with homesickness and despair. Loni Cerna reported that her son, a college student in Cali, is safe, though parts of his campus were heavily damaged and people may still be trapped.

Relief efforts have mobilized quickly across New York City. The Colombian American Police Association established more than a dozen collection sites across the city to gather donations. In Woodside, Queens, Franklin Santana opened his business to serve as a collection point for supplies.

"We were all on the same page. We all texted each other saying, 'Listen, this is an opportunity to step up,'" said John Londono, an organizer with the Colombian American Police Association. Londono noted that carloads of donations have arrived at collection sites. "They tell us there's a big need right now for first aid and emergency supplies like tents, gloves, masks because of all the rubble that is there," he said.

Santana emphasized the connection felt by the local community. "Here in Queens, it's a big Colombian community. We feel it. It hurts, and if we can help here, why not?" he said.

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards announced that his team will work with community groups and nonprofits to help families affected by the disaster. Business owners in the borough, including Bello Florido, owner of Pimpollo Colombian restaurant in East Elmhurst, watched news coverage of the tragedy with concern. Florido said he watched with tears and said a prayer each time the death toll increased.