Account set up for donations to Peru

Donations to help relief efforts related to Wednesday's earthquake in Peru can be made at any Wells Fargo Bank under the Peru Relief Effort account, set up by the Peruvian community in coordination with the Peruvian consulate.

Several members of Utah's Peruvian community held a press conference Wednesday to ask for prayers and support for victims of the earthquake.

"We want to urge those Utahns, who are known for their great hearts and generosity ... please contribute to our aid effort," said Jose Loiyza, president of the Latin American Chamber of Commerce.

Community advocate Tony Yapias, originally from Peru, says he has a second cousin who has yet to be accounted for since the earthquake.

Yapias said it was a harrowing night for all of Utah's Peruvian community.

"We are concerned. A lot of us have families. We couldn't get a hold of our families," Yapias said. "The whole central area of Peru is cut off. ... There is no passage."

It is winter in Peru, and in addition to financial donations, people are being asked to donate items such as warm clothing, tents and coats. The Peruvian community is working to coordinate with existing nonprofits to get the donations to those in need.

Donations can be brought to Poder Para La Familia Hispana, 1737 S. Redwood Road in Salt Lake City, phone 972-2018; the Latin American Chamber, 5663 S. Redwood Road in Taylorsville; or in Orem to the home of Alberto Puertas, 1187 N. 560 West.