Tornado in Rio Bonito do Iguacu, Emergency Support

On November 7, 2025, a devastating tornado struck the municipality of Rio Bonito do Iguaçu, in the state of Paraná, Brazil. With winds exceeding 330 km/h, the disaster destroyed approximately 90% of the city’s infrastructure, resulting in six fatalities, more than 800 injuries, and widespread displacement among a population of roughly 14,000 residents.

In response to this emergency, Foco Empreendedor activated its international network and launched the project “Tornado in Rio Bonito do Iguaçu – Emergency Support” on the GlobalGiving platform, where the organization has been verified since 2021.

Through international donations raised via GlobalGiving, essential food supplies were purchased and delivered to support the affected population. Specifically, the project funded the acquisition and donation of:

• 1,000 kilograms of flour

• 1,000 kilograms of sugar

• 334 liters of cooking oil

These items were delivered to a temporary shelter currently housing more than 2,000 individuals who have lost their homes and still have no permanent place to return to.

All products were purchased from businesses located within the region or in nearby municipalities. This approach ensured not only a rapid emergency response but also contributed to supporting and stimulating the local economy during a period of severe disruption. Rather than transporting goods from distant locations, procurement was intentionally carried out locally to reinforce community recovery efforts.

Despite the immediate response, the city continues to face significant challenges in rebuilding its infrastructure and restoring normal living conditions. Many families remain displaced, and food assistance is still critically needed. Continued support is essential to ensure food security and dignity for those who remain in temporary shelters and for families struggling to reestablish their livelihoods.

This initiative reflects Foco Empreendedor’s commitment to transparent, accountable, and locally grounded disaster response. By connecting international donors to urgent local needs, the project demonstrates how organized solidarity can generate tangible impact in communities facing extreme vulnerability.

We remain committed to supporting Rio Bonito do Iguaçu in its ongoing recovery process and to ensuring that international contributions continue to translate into meaningful, community-centered action.

Links:

• Emergency help (food) - Housing