Beyoncé donates $1 million for emergency earthquake relief in Colombia

Beyoncé has pledged a personal donation of $1 million to organisations providing emergency assistance in Colombia following the powerful earthquake that devastated parts of the country earlier this month. Parkwood Entertainment, the singer’s entertainment company, said the money would be directed towards immediate relief in areas hit hardest by the magnitude-7.4 earthquake that struck Chocó on August 10.

The assistance will focus particularly on food and housing supplies for people who lost their homes or were displaced by the disaster. The earthquake caused extensive damage to buildings, roads and other infrastructure, disrupting access to essential supplies in several communities. The quake’s epicentre was near San José del Palmar in western Colombia and tremors were felt across large parts of the country.

Hundreds killed in disaster

At least 331 people have died in the earthquake, according to figures from Colombia’s National Unit for Disaster Risk Management. Another 4,439 people were injured, 240 remained missing and 364 people had been rescued.

Thousands of homes were damaged or destroyed, leaving families in need of shelter and other basic necessities.

Beyoncé’s representatives pointed people seeking to contribute towards the continuing humanitarian response to Food For The Poor and World Central Kitchen, organisations involved in assisting affected communities.

The singer’s contribution adds to a wider mobilisation of musicians and public figures following one of Colombia’s deadliest natural disasters in recent years.

Artists rally behind Colombia

Colombian singer Shakira has joined partners in pledging an initial $1.25 million towards rebuilding schools damaged by the earthquake. Her Pies Descalzos Foundation is expected to lead that effort.

Karol G’s Con Cora Foundation has contributed $1.2 million to support victims, while a benefit concert in Bogotá featuring more than 30 performers raised over 11 billion Colombian pesos, or approximately $3.6 million, for affected families.

Beyoncé has previously contributed to disaster-relief efforts through her philanthropic work. In 2025, her BeyGOOD Foundation committed $2.5 million to assist families affected by the Los Angeles wildfires.

Her latest contribution is aimed at immediate humanitarian needs as Colombian authorities and relief organisations continue rescue, rehabilitation and reconstruction work in communities affected by the August 10 earthquake.