A state of emergency has been declared in Ecuador following a powerful, 7.8 earthquake that hit the coastal province of Esmeraldas on April 17. Hundreds of people have lost their lives, or have been injured – and thousands have been impacted by the disaster. The earthquake struck 173km from Ecuador’s capital Quito, and caused serious damage to buildings, infrastructure, the electricity supply, and highways that are needed to deliver assistance.
The Red Cross is on the ground, supporting the needs of those affected by the disaster, with hundreds of Ecuadorian Red Cross volunteers working around the clock to help provide aid. These volunteers are providing services like first aid, psychosocial support, and search and rescue, as well as supporting evacuations and telecommunications around the country. Red Cross teams are also carrying out assessments to help determine what other support may be needed.
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Canadians can help support the Red Cross’ response efforts by making a donation to the Ecuador Earthquake Appeal.
If you are looking for a Canadian citizen in the affected area, please refer them to Foreign Affairs Canada 1-800-387-3124.
The Canadian Red Cross Restoring Family Links Program helps people re-establish contact with their family members when separated by natural disasters.
If you are looking for someone who isn't a Canadian citizen, please contact the Canadian Red Cross at 1-800-363-7305 or 1-866-399-8412 to confidentially discuss your request with a case management officer, you can also send an email to familylinks@redcross.ca or visit us online.
