The coronavirus pandemic has affected nearly every country on the planet, and the suffering has been especially extreme in some parts of the Americas. But there are ways that we can help people around Latin America, even if we’re not traveling there for the time being. One of the latest announcements comes from Ecuador, where a new initiative is aiming to help local communities in need.
On Thursday, July 15, 2020, nonprofit organizations Por Todos and SOS Ecuador will team up to launch the official “Day of Giving for Ecuador” to help those most affected by economic hardships associated with COVID-19. With coronavirus cases highest in the Latin America, past 55,000 and limited resources depleting the country, it is essential to raise awareness and funds for those most in need. Ecuador is experiencing vast economic and humanitarian hardship with no end in sight.
“Contributing to this campaign has a double effect; on one side it supports Ecuador at a time when it faces the most difficult economic situation in its history,” said Ambassador of Ecuador to the U.S. Ivonne Baki. “On the other side, it brings back hope to thousands of Ecuadorian families. I am proud to support July 15th as the designated ‘Day of Giving’ for Ecuador.’”
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On July 15, even the smallest contribution can have a positive effect for the people of Ecuador. The nonprofit organizations are asking for help with their aid to stop the spread of the coronavirus in a vibrant country that for travelers is known as home to the spectacular Galápagos Islands, breathtaking cloud forests and historic cities like Quito.
“This fight we are waging is affecting us all,” said Roque Sevilla, Founder of Por Todos. “We must not avert our eyes, but stand side by side as we wake up to the new reality that this horrific pandemic will not go away until we eradicate it in every corner of the world. Though great strides have been made by donations to our fund from around the world, there is still work to be done.”
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Go to the websites in the links above on July 15 (or before, or after, for that matter) to make a donation and play a part in relief efforts. And if you have information to share about similar initiatives in other Latin American countries, please contact me. I hope to share additional information from other destinations in coming posts.
And don’t forget that LatinFlyer has lots of Ecuador travel tips for when you do decide to travel again. Whether it’s the most artsy things to do in Quito, socializing with giant iguanas in Guayaquil or must-try Ecuadorian food, you’ll find lots of inspiration on this travel blog!
COVER PHOTO: Cuenca, Ecuador. Photo: VisualHunt