Colombia First Lady reports $17 million in private earthquake relief donations

The Fundación Colombia Luz y Sonrisas, led by Colombian First Lady Ana Lucía Pineda, has released a management report detailing more than 54.6 billion pesos (approximately $17 million USD) in private donations received following the 7.4-magnitude earthquake on August 10.

The report clarifies that all funds originated from the private sector, with no public money involved. A significant portion of the total, 81%, was provided by the Gilinski Group. The foundation stated that these funds are being held in regulated financial institutions and are reserved for a second phase of reconstruction, which includes rebuilding schools and health centers in Cali.

This disclosure follows scrutiny from political opposition and survivors who questioned the management of aid, noting that many families in the hardest-hit western regions remain without permanent housing. First Lady Pineda denied all allegations of mismanagement, stating, “There is nothing to hide. I don’t need to keep even a grain of anyone’s rice.”

During the initial humanitarian phase, the foundation reported that over 48,000 people were assisted across 80 municipalities through the distribution of 5,652 tons of aid, supported by more than 1,250 volunteers and various logistics companies.