Chile Hit with 8.8 Magnitude Earthquake – Largest in 50 Years

Contact: Jayne, BrightHope.org, 224-520-6122

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., March 2 /Christian Newswire/ -- On Saturday, February 27th, an earthquake measuring 8.8 magnitude hit Chile. The earthquake happened at 3:34 am Chile time (1:34 EST). It was centered approximately 200 miles south of the capital of Santiago, and roughly 50 miles north of the town Concepcion off the coast of Maule. Early reports say the quake lasted up to 90 seconds with a 6.9 magnitude aftershock and many aftershocks occurring within hours, some of magnitudes over 5.0.

Bright Hope quickly went into action, contacting partners and monitoring the quake damage reports. Bright Hope's Partnership Developer, Mark Lennox, located in Santiago, Chile began assessing where the damage had occurred and the most urgent needs. "Mark has been in contact with Christian leaders. They have created an immediate response plan to help the people in Concepcion through Bright Hope's church networks. The immediate plan is to focus on food, and medicine." states Craig Dyer, President of Bright Hope.

The relief plan has two immediate actions: First, Mark Lennox is partnering with local indigenous churches in Santiago to collect needed items and will transport them down to the church partners in Concepcion. Secondly, Mark and another pastor will travel with a Chilean volunteer team to assess the situation and make next step plans.

A grocery store owner has agreed to purchase and deliver needed supplies to churches in Concepcion.

To donate to the Disaster relief fund or for more information please visit BrightHope.org or call 224-520-6100.