Colombia Relief
Feeding Program Updates
On August 10, 2026, a devastating 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia, leaving a trail of destruction across communities including Pereira, Cali, and Manizales. With thousands of families displaced and continuous aftershocks, communities were left in urgent need for help.
Mercy Chefs worked alongside local churches and partners in Pereira, Colombia, to prepare and serve hot, nutritious meals to individuals and families impacted by this disaster. We are grateful to our supporters and partners for making this response possible.
For our latest relief efforts, follow us on Facebook and Instagram (@MercyChefs).
August 24, 2026
She Came to Help & Then Found Her Calling
When the earthquake devastated Jesica’s community, she had never experienced anything like it. But in the days that followed, this local culinary student found a way to use her God-given gift to help her neighbors.
Jesica stepped into our kitchen, preparing meals for families facing the aftermath of the disaster. Before the earthquake, she had never heard of Mercy Chefs or even imagined using her culinary skills to serve others in crisis. Now, she dreams of using those same skills to serve people around the world. One simple call: just go feed people. Because of supporters like you, Jesica had the opportunity to answer it.
August 19, 2026
Finding Purpose in the Aftermath
“We are alive because we have a purpose. So maybe our purpose is [to] help the people [who] need [it] in this perfect moment.”
When the earthquake struck, Paola was at school with more than 100 students. After seeing the devastation across Pereira, including damage to her own home, she chose to serve others. Alongside local churches and Mercy Chefs, Paola is helping provide meals to families who, like her, have lost so much and are rebuilding.
As Colombia begins a journey of healing, Mercy Chefs is bringing comfort and warmth. Please continue to pray for these families, and join us in helping provide more meals to those who need it most.
August 16, 2026
Standing with Families Around the World
As communities worldwide face the aftermath of devastating disasters, Mercy Chefs continues to answer the call wherever help is needed. For families whose homes, routines, and sense of security have been shattered, each day can feel like a struggle simply to move forward. In Colombia, our team is bringing hot meals. At the same time, we are in Venezuela and Washington, caring for those recovering from earthquakes and wildfires.
With more severe weather threatening communities around the globe, we know the need will grow. As Chef Gary LeBlanc shares from the ground in Colombia, the meals you help provide are making a difference in the midst of crisis. Your continued support makes it possible for Mercy Chefs to say “yes” and bring hope to those facing some of their darkest days.
August 15, 2026
In the Middle of Darkness
Our Global team carried hot, chef-prepared meals into a remote community—a place our local church partner told us is often forgotten—high in the mountains of Colombia. At the top of the ridge, in this area left without power, hundreds gathered in the darkness to receive a hot meal and a Bible to take home. Pastors shared words of hope and prayed for these families.
The earthquake’s impact stretches far beyond the larger cities. The road to recovery will be long, and these remote communities with little access to basic necessities still need help. Thank you for sending us to Colombia to feed body and soul where families are taking their first steps toward rebuilding.
August 14, 2026
Serving First Meals & Hope that Lasts
Mercy Chefs has served our first hot, chef-prepared meals to families impacted by the devastating earthquake in Colombia. After arriving in Pereira, the team quickly secured a location and supplies and began preparing nutritious meals for those who have lost so much.
With power and water still sporadic and countless families sheltering in tent encampments, the need for food remains urgent. To expand our reach, we are building a kitchen in a school gym. This kitchen will remain operational long after we leave so that the local church can continue to care for its community. A gift today provides more than a meal in a moment of crisis; it helps bring hope that lasts.
August 12, 2026
Mobilizing to Serve Earthquake Victims
In the aftermath of the powerful earthquake, over 200 people have lost their lives, thousands have been injured, more than 87,000 homes have been destroyed or damaged, and aftershocks continue to plague the country.
Our Global team is on the ground, connecting with local churches and partners who are caring for their neighbors even after facing incredible loss themselves. Together, we’re working to identify kitchens, gather supplies, and prepare to serve hot meals to survivors and emergency crews. This response comes as Mercy Chefs continues serving families impacted by the recent earthquakes in Venezuela. After back-to-back deployments, your generosity helps us continue responding where the need is greatest, providing meals to those affected by this disaster.
Make a Donation
Every gift helps us reach vulnerable communities around the world as they face disaster and hardship. Thank you for your continued support as we feed body and soul around the country and across the globe.
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If you would like to partner with our Global team or have any questions, please complete the form below.
