San Diegans provide quake relief to those affected by Colombia’s quake – NBC 7 San Diego

As the death toll in Colombia continues climbing following the quake that rattled the western portion for the country, in San Diego the community is coming together to support the families affected.

Video shared with NBC San Diego shows moments of terror and panic as a 7.4 quake rattled parts of Colombia on Monday. It shows students huddling together as they try to protect themselves from the collapsing buildings and debris.

“Heartbreaking, heartbreaking to see all of that devastation,” Andres Rodriguez with Antojitos Colombianos said.

As of Wednesday, the death toll had stretched to nearly 200, with hundreds more missing. The search for survivors in the rubble continues.

In San Diego, Javier and Andres Rodriquez with Antojitos Colombianos said the devastation is personal because they still have loved ones living there.

“You want to help to try and help at least your family or any member and say hey, I’m here. It’s kind of frustrating because you’re here, faraway but I mean, that’s why we’re doing this,” Rodriguez said.

When they heard about the disaster, they quickly partnered with community volunteers to organize a donation drive and show their solidarity to those impacted.

Since Monday, people have been dropping off food, clothing, supplies, and toiletries they plan to send to the families and areas affected.

“The only hope that we have is God and just pray and my prayers are also with them. I’m trying to pray and that this time is going to pass fast and they’re going to pass through it,” Andres Rodriguez said.

Organizers said the donations will be taken to Los Angeles, then flown to Miami where they will then be flown out to Colombia.