3/1/2010 - Earthquake in Chile
AFS Intercultural Programs currently has on program 16 to 18 year-olds participating in one-year and semester intercultural exchange programs in Chile. The majority of these participants arrived in Chile on the 25th and 26th of February and were at their orientation site 50 kms south of Santiago when the earthquake occurred. No program participants were injured and AFS has communicated with the parents of all participants regarding their safety.
The AFS International Crisis Center is working closely with staff and volunteers in Chile to continue to monitor and assess the situation. Students who were placed in homes that suffered serious damage and/or loss of utility services will be moved to temporary host families as necessary.
AFS has more than 60 years of experience with international exchange programs. The safety and security of our participants is our highest priority. We thank our local AFS contacts and volunteers who are working hard in a challenging environment. In the coming days, AFS will continue to work with the participants, their natural families and our host families to do all we can to ensure the safety and well-being of all involved and keep the lines of communication open.
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