July 9, 2026
News
Two weeks ago, Venezuela was hit with two earthquakes, resulting in the death of more than 3,800 people. Venezuelans continue searching for their relatives in the rubble of collapsed buildings, while the number of reported missing remains in the tens of thousands. According to the UN, the damage could reach as much as 37 billion USD. It is estimated that nearly 18,000 people lost their homes. Many of them camp in parks because accommodation capacity is lacking. Caritas Venezuela operates on the ground and is supported by Caritas Czech Republic through the international Caritas network.
Photo: Nearly 18,000 people lost their homes (photo by Caritas Venezuela)
The teams of our sister organisation have relocated directly to the most affected areas, where they secure basic needs for the most vulnerable. During the first few days after the disaster, Caritas Venezuela ran a system called 24x24, through which it systematically and effectively accepted aid and distributed it. The organisation dedicated 24 hours to each activity. This way, the locals, who were recovering from the tremors, knew when to bring the material aid to the collection centres and when it would be delivered to those who need it.
Caritas Venezuela opened collection centres at the headquarters of the Venezuelan Bishops’ Conference, as well as at dozens of diocesan centres and parishes across the country. Colleagues from other Caritas organisations around the world, including Germany and Spain, are also helping to coordinate the response. Volunteers are likewise getting involved on the ground, eager to assist their fellow citizens in need. According to Caritas Venezuela, an average of 280 volunteers take part in the effort each day. One of them is Diego:
I think this is the way several of us help out in this very difficult situation we are going through, and I think that is what drives us to keep coming back and continue supporting this foundation in helping those most affected.
During the first two weeks after the disaster, Caritas Venezuela helped 8,000 families, so up to 40,000 people. It accepted 14,700 tonnes of humanitarian aid and managed to distribute 9,000 tonnes of it. This support included, for example, 5,000 food and 3,000 hygiene packages. Moreover, Caritas provided people with 73,356 items of medical supplies and medicines.
Health assistance is also crucial because of the risk of disease outbreaks. In addition, 38 hospitals were damaged during the earthquake, while healthcare facilities have been overwhelmed by the massive influx of patients with acute injuries. Caritas Venezuela is also providing psychosocial and spiritual support on the ground.
Photo: Volunteers in Venezuela (photo by Caritas Venezuela)
The most effective way for international aid to reach the country is through financial donations. Therefore, in response to this devastating disaster, we immediately launched the Caritas for Venezuela fundraising campaign. Together, we have managed to raise over 2.5 million CZK so far. We would like to thank everyone who has supported the campaign.
However, the people of Venezuela will continue to need our help, not only to meet their most urgent needs in the first weeks of the crisis, but also during the long process of recovery. Every donation counts. Thank you for standing with us in supporting people abroad.
