South Florida Volunteers Rally Aid for Colombia Quake Victims

When a powerful earthquake struck Colombia on Monday, volunteers in South Florida didn't wait to be asked for help.

Within hours, the Doral-based Global Empowerment Mission had volunteers pouring through their doors, sorting camping gear and first aid supplies bound for the hardest-hit areas. Juan Caicedo traveled from his home to help pack supplies for Cali, one of the western Colombian cities most impacted by the quake.

"We sent money to our families, to our friends," Caicedo said. "But we are here today to help out packing."

The response has brought together people from across the region. Carlos Jara was first in line Wednesday morning to drop off donations, having previously volunteered after Venezuela's earthquakes in June.

"Venezuela or Colombia is brothers," Jara said simply. "Two countries is brothers."

The Ripple Effect

What makes this relief effort different is its focus on strengthening Colombia's economy while delivering aid. Francine De La Rosa with GEM explained they're prioritizing cash donations over physical goods.

"We want to buy supplies and goods in Colombia so that we can get them to the hands of victims more quickly," De La Rosa said. "That also allows us to help the local economy."

The organization is working directly with the Colombian government to identify the greatest needs. Right now, camping gear tops the list, including tarps, tents, and blankets for families whose homes are no longer safe.

Two warehouses are currently buzzing with activity as volunteers sort through donations. CBS News Miami has partnered with Neighbors 4 Neighbors and GEM to coordinate relief efforts.

De La Rosa said the quick response didn't happen by accident. "We work 365 days a year to plan for this, and that's what allows us to be most effective when it comes to immediate response," she explained.

Aid flights were scheduled to depart for Colombia as early as Wednesday. The organization continues seeking volunteers to help sort supplies and cash donations to purchase goods locally in Colombia.

For families thousands of miles from home, the chance to help their homeland offers both purpose and comfort during an unimaginable tragedy.