In an effort to build new schools in the region affected by the devastating earthquake in her home country, Colombia, Shakira has pledged $1,250,000.00
After visiting the damaged schools and meeting with children affected by the 7.4-magnitude earthquake that hit the region August 10, on Monday (8.17,) the Colombian-born musician made a surprise visit to Quibdó, the capital of the Chocó province, during which time she committed an initial $1,250,000.00 to help build at least ten new schools via her charitable foundation, Fundación Pies Descalzos (Barefoot Foundation).
The philanthropic donation is supported by three sources: $500,000.00 from Shakira and Live Nation, $500,000.00 from the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund and $250,000.00 from CAF, the development bank of Latin America and the Caribbean.
In an interview with local reporters, the artist (born Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll,) said “What worries me the most is that schools are not rebuilt once this emergency is over.” “Every day that children don’t go to school is a day they miss out on their future.” “It’s a place I love, a place where I’ve seen our students grow in our classrooms. I really want to see it rebuilt again.”
Having partnered with the songstress on Colombian education initiatives in the past, Shakira was joined by Warren Buffett’s son, Howard Buffett and the The Howard G. Buffett Foundation who will collaborate with her Barefoot Foundation for the latest project.
Concerning his involvement, Buffet “When she calls, I come.”
Currently running two schools in Chocó, Colombia’s poorest region, it was in 1997 that Shakira set up her foundation to help impoverished children.
Taking to social media following the disaster, Shakira wrote on social media, the 49-year old singer wrote:
“Beloved Colombia, my heart is with everyone who felt this earthquake today and with the families who are going through moments of anguish. In times like these, we Colombians know how to come together and support one another.” “All my strength and love for my homeland. Let’s embrace tightly and stay tuned to the instructions so we can help as soon as possible.”
During the earthquake 13,000+ homes were destroyed, 135,000+ people have been affected, and 200+ people lost their lives.
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Author: Saul Goode
Photo: suran2007