Netflix Provides US$186,000 in Earthquake Aid to Colombia’s Film Industry

Netflix has pledged US$186,000 to Colombia's film industry to support workers affected by the recent earthquake. The streaming giant's donation, which translates to roughly 600 million Colombian pesos, will be shared between the Colombian Film Academy and ASOCINDE, an association of independent film and audiovisual producers. Rather than distributing the funds directly, the industry bodies will conduct a census to determine exactly who needs assistance, as the earthquake's impact varies greatly from household to household.

Colombia's Culture Minister Paola Holguin expressed gratitude for Netflix's contribution, emphasizing the tailored approach of corporate funding combined with grassroots verification. The film industry has already been proactive in organizing its own response, with the Colombian Film Academy launching the International Audiovisual Solidarity Fund. ASOCINDE has also established the Fund for Audiovisual Assistance and Reactivation to aid both individual workers and production companies.

Netflix's support extends beyond the initial donation, as the company will also triple any donations made by its employees to earthquake-related charitable organizations through its own Donations Program. This approach ensures that the aid reaches the most vulnerable workers, taking into account the diverse roles and specific needs within Colombia's audiovisual sector.

The minister highlighted the importance of private companies partnering with organizations that understand the industry's unique requirements to effectively support Colombia's recovery efforts.