Two Weeks Since Major Venezuelan Earthquake: Children Living Through a "Double Crisis"

Children drawing pictures in a "Child-Friendly Space" with World Vision staff.

July 8th marks two weeks since the Venezuelan earthquake.

As of July 6th, the international NGO World Vision, which supports children worldwide, has delivered aid to a cumulative total of 4,306 households, reaching 14,991 people.

The situation for children in the affected areas is becoming more severe each day. Children who have been living through years of economic crisis have already faced difficulties in accessing adequate food, medical care, and education. The devastating earthquake has further compounded these challenges, and heavy rains in recent days are making the evacuation life even more difficult. The living conditions for families living in tents and temporary shelters have worsened, and humanitarian aid needs are increasing.

Contribute to the Venezuela Earthquake Emergency Relief Fund

Aid provided to approximately 15,000 people by July 6th

World Vision's activities are centered on child protection. In the three regions of La Guaira State, the capital Caracas, and Miranda State, aid has been delivered to a total of 14,991 people, including:

● Distributed 488 food baskets

● Provided hygiene kits and water kits to 117 households

● Distributed 46 recreation kits

● Established two "Child-Friendly Spaces" where children can spend time safely and securely, providing psychosocial support to 261 children and young people

● Conducted Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) awareness activities for 132 people in Guatire, Miranda State.

A boy receives a support kit from World Vision.

Children Living Through a "Double Crisis" - "Recovery Will Not End with Emergency Response"

The damage from the earthquake remains severe, constituting a large-scale humanitarian crisis. Search and rescue operations are ongoing in the most heavily affected areas, but aid is gradually transitioning to the initial recovery phase.

It is important to remember that the crisis in Venezuela did not begin with the earthquake. Children in Venezuela have grown up for years amidst an economic crisis, witnessing many families forced to migrate to maintain their daily lives. Now, the devastating earthquake has shattered even the little stability that remained. Homes, schools, and safe spaces for children were destroyed in mere minutes.

World Vision has continued its activities in Venezuela, providing essential supplies to help families live safely, healthily, and protected. The need for this support is now greater than ever.

Looking ahead, the following medium- to long-term impacts are a cause for concern:

● Rapid deterioration of public health conditions due to the suspension of water, electricity, and gas supplies, leading to garbage accumulation and rodent infestation.

● Increased psychosocial burden on children living in shelters, temporary housing, and informal settlements.

● Increased risk of infectious disease outbreaks due to lack of safe water, overcrowded living conditions, and poor sanitation.

● In heavily affected states, the loss of educational opportunities for children may be prolonged due to the need for safety assessments of school facilities.

"Solidarity is making a tangible difference in Venezuela. Thanks to the dedicated support of our staff, volunteers, churches, and partners, we have been able to deliver aid to thousands of affected people.

However, as each day passes, we are keenly aware that recovery will not end with emergency response alone. Given the scale of this crisis, sustained support is essential. We will continue to provide support so that all children and families can receive protection, have hope, and rebuild their lives with dignity."

- Peter Gay, National Director for Colombia and Venezuela, World Vision

A child shows a shy smile during an interaction with World Vision staff.

We are accepting donations for the "Venezuela Earthquake Emergency Relief Fund."

To respond to the urgent needs of children whose daily lives have been disrupted by the sudden major earthquake, we are requesting your cooperation with the "Venezuela Earthquake Emergency Relief Fund." Please help us protect the lives and futures of children.

Contribute to the Venezuela Earthquake Emergency Relief Fund

◆ Latest information on the "Venezuela Earthquake Emergency Relief" is available here.

◆ About World Vision Japan

An international NGO based on Christian principles, working for children facing difficulties due to poverty, conflict, natural disasters, etc. It is the Japan office of World Vision, which operates in approximately 100 countries and is accredited and registered with the United Nations Economic and Social Council. Learn more here.