In response to the devastation caused by the fires in the Valparaíso Region, the Abrázame Foundation and Desafío Levantemos Chile deployed a joint effort to provide help to affected babies and children. Last Friday, the first assistance truck left for Viña del Mar, loaded with essential supplies for the little ones.
The truck was carrying a variety of vital items, including more than 100 strollers, 50 cribs, 200 jars of formula, 300 baby bottles, 500 boxes of baby clothes, 250 boxes of toiletries and food. These supplies were distributed directly among infants and children in Viña del Mar and Quilpué, two of the areas most affected by the accidents.
Despite this initial effort, the needs of minors remain latent. Askaan Wholt, emergency director of Desafío Levantemos Chile, acknowledged that “little help has reached some locations in Quilpué and Viña del Mar, where there is still a great need for specific things for buses and children.”
Cecilia Rodríguez, executive director of Fundación Abrázame, added: “We saw many mothers and fathers looking for help for their children, what people ask for most is milk and diapers. The outlook is bleak… it is crucial that all those who can help continue to do so.”
The donations, which have been fundamental for this work, were received by Fundación Abrázame throughout the week at more than 10 collection points in Santiago and Viña del Mar. Stores such as Pichintún, Color Volantín, The Loop Kids Re Store, Pascualula and Mini Nuts joined this cause, along with the collaboration of multiple volunteers and influencers, demonstrating once again the solidarity of the community in times of crisis.
During the next few days, formula, diapers and other essential items will be distributed.
This initiative was possible thanks to the Abrázame Foundation’s “Hug the children of the V” campaign, which received crucial logistical support from Desafío Levantemos Chile. More than 200 volunteers joined this cause, along with the on-the-ground support of officials from the municipality of Viña del Mar, to ensure the timely delivery of aid.
