Caritas Venezuela has revealed the significant impact of international solidarity following the devastating earthquakes that struck northern Venezuela in June.
Three weeks into the response, Caritas Venezuela has received more than 19,000 tonnes of humanitarian aid, with 84 per cent already distributed to families affected by the disaster. Through the extensive network of the church, thousands of families have received emergency assistance kits, while overstretched hospitals and healthcare facilities have received medicines and medical supplies.
The response has delivered:
17,808 full emergency assistance kits for families;
10,820 food kits;
6,988 hygiene kits;
Over 6.8m litres of water;
96,000 units of medicines and medical supplies.
Caritas Venezuela reports that aid is now being distributed faster than new supplies are arriving, highlighting both the effectiveness of the relief effort and the ongoing need for support as communities move from emergency response into recovery.
"Thanks to the generosity of Australians, families affected by the earthquakes have received food, clean water, hygiene supplies and medical assistance during their darkest hours," said Sally Thomas, Humanitarian Manager at Caritas Australia.
"While the immediate emergency phase is easing, the recovery journey is only just beginning. Many families remain displaced, homes have been damaged or destroyed, and communities face a long road ahead to rebuild their lives."
The response has been powered by an extraordinary mobilisation of volunteers. Across Venezuela, around 10,000 volunteers have joined Caritas teams through local parishes and dioceses, helping to receive, sort, pack and distribute aid to affected communities
Despite the progress achieved so far, Caritas Venezuela warns that thousands of families remain in temporary accommodation and many may be unable to return to their homes. Continued support will be essential as recovery efforts expand in the coming months.
Caritas Australia's Venezuela Earthquake Appeal remains open, with donations helping local Caritas teams provide emergency relief and longer-term recovery assistance to those most affected.
To support Caritas Australia’s Venezuela Earthquake Appeal, visit www.caritas.org.au/venezuela or call 1800 024 413 toll free.
Media contact: Tara Harvey 0484 002 021 tara.harvey@caritas.org.au or caritasmedia@caritas.org.au  
