Venezuela Earthquake Support: Update 1
Within 24 hours of one of Latin America’s worst earthquakes, The Salvation Army’s local disaster services team was on the ground in the hardest-hit areas, providing food assistance, hygiene supplies, household items, sleeping mats and blankets.
“The situation was truly heartbreaking. We were in the middle of a real catastrophe, but we know our work brings hope and relief to many people in need.”—Regional Coordinator, Captain Edicson Sánchez, who is leading Salvation Army operations.
On Sunday night, July 5, Venezuela’s information ministry said the number of people killed had risen to more than 3,300 while the number of people injured had passed 16,700. Furthermore, the shocks collapsed scores of buildings, leaving thousands homeless.
Current Situation
Communities continue to live with fear, uncertainty and displacement.
Many families remain separated, with large numbers still missing.
Needs remain significant across all age groups, including children, elderly people and vulnerable individuals.
Operational Update
The Salvation Army’s response in Venezuela continues to grow, with teams reaching multiple affected communities. Support includes:
- providing meals and drinks to help restore the strength of those clearing the rubble
- giving words of encouragement and emotional support to those who need it
- visiting families living in temporary shelters to distribute flour, sugar, rice, canned tuna and other essential supplies
- support for Civil Protection and rescue teams
- completed assessments of additional communities
Next Steps
With thanks to donations from Canada, USA, France, The Netherlands, Norway and other partnerships, The Salvation Army is now preparing to scale up assistance with the United Nations, local authorities and other organizations on the ground.
Next steps include further targeted distributions in underserved areas, ongoing community mapping and needs assessments, participation in UN coordination meetings and developing a larger International emergency services-supported response.
