The forest fires burning in Central Chile in late January and early February 2024 have left a trail of destruction, affecting more than 40,000 individuals, many of whom are now homeless. Chilean authorities report 131 deaths and 14 missing.
The Area Presidency for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a statement regarding the devastation.
The South America South Area Presidency wishes to express our deep sorrow and solidarity in the face of the devastating tragedy of the forest fires that have affected central Chile, particularly in the areas of Quilpué and Viña del Mar.
In these moments of pain and loss, we express our love, empathy, and prayers for those affected. The Church has been contributing donations to support affected families. We are coordinating with the government and other institutions, providing volunteers and material aid with the desire to bring assistance and hope to our brothers and sisters who have been so impacted by this catastrophe.
We invite individuals, families, and congregations to pray for protection for the firefighters and to provide strength to the affected families, reflecting the love and compassion that Jesus Christ taught us.
In response to this crisis, the Church of Jesus Christ is joining with the National Office of Religious Affairs to coordinate assistance initiatives along with the Red Cross and the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) to deliver supplies and provide temporary sites for children to attend school and receive food. Local Latter-day Saints responded to the call for help by volunteering to distribute bottled water and supplies, as well as cleaning and removing debris.
Elder Ricardo A. Spencer, a regional Church leader, reported that more than 100 Church members’ homes in the affected regions have sustained damage.
This is an official press release re-published by LDSDaily.com from Newsroom.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
