Shakira's quiet work for children in Colombia is back in the spotlight. After a deadly earthquake hit her homeland, the singer promised to help make sure schools are rebuilt.
The 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck Colombia on August 10, and Shakira announced an initial $1.25 million commitment during a visit to Quibdó on August 17. Of the nearly 200 schools damaged in Chocó, 40 were completely destroyed.
Global Citizen and Live Nation each pledged $500,000, and her foundation, Fundación Pies Descalzos, will coordinate the rebuilding in phases with local communities. She also said she will personally lead efforts to rebuild the Universidad Tecnológica de Quibdó, the city's only university. Philanthropist Howard Buffett joined her on the trip, and his foundation will work with hers on school reconstruction.
The work is personal for her. Her foundation has been in Chocó for 22 years and runs two schools there. For Shakira, the effort is about more than repairing buildings, and she has said that "schools are more than buildings." She also vowed not to abandon Chocó until every child can return to school.
Shakira also faces a difficult week with her own family, many readers are keeping Shakira in their prayers.
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