Catholic Charities in Chile will launch this Sunday a national collection in all the parishes of the country in benefit of the victims of last December’s earthquake, which took place in near the city of Bam.  The quake caused 50,000 deaths and destroyed 70% of the city’s structures.

According to Catholic Charities in Chile, more than 100,000 people need food, clothing and medicine, and more than 2,000 children lost both parents.  Those who lost their homes are also suffering from the winter cold, with temperatures dropping below 42°F.

Those wishing to make donations can send deposits to the Banco de Chile, account number 000-00117-01.  The collection will be sent to the Iranian Bishops Conference on January 30.