Caritas Poland has launched an urgent humanitarian aid campaign for people affected by the devastating earthquakes that struck northern Venezuela on June 24. Two powerful earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, struck north-central and western parts of the country, causing widespread destruction, loss of life and severe damage to homes and critical infrastructure. Caritas Poland is supporting the emergency response of its local partner, Caritas Venezuela, which has mobilized its network of diocesan and parish organizations to assess needs and assist communities in the worst-affected areas.

A country facing a new catastrophe

The earthquakes have struck a country already struggling with a prolonged humanitarian, economic and political crisis. The disaster has compounded existing shortages and placed additional pressure on communities with limited access to healthcare, food, clean water and adequate shelter. Caritas Poland Deputy Director Ireneusz Krause said the situation is extremely difficult and stressed the importance of working through trusted local partners. “The situation in Venezuela is dire. We have been providing aid to Venezuelans for years. In crisis situations, we rely on the expertise of our local partners, who are best acquainted with the current realities and can most accurately assess the current need in the regions most affected by the disaster.” The local Caritas network has been working from the first hours after the earthquakes to assess damage, coordinate relief and reach families who have lost their homes and possessions.

Urgent humanitarian needs

Among the most pressing needs are medical supplies and essential medicines, as well as support for field medical centres serving affected communities. Safe drinking water and food are also urgently required, particularly long-life food supplies for families who have lost their homes and belongings. Caritas is also seeking to provide emergency shelter and basic household necessities, including tents, blankets, sleeping bags and hygiene kits. The scale of the humanitarian response has continued to grow. By early July, Caritas Venezuela reported that thousands of families had received comprehensive assistance, including food, water, hygiene supplies, medicines and medical equipment.

Caritas responds amid Venezuela’s long-running crisis

Venezuela has experienced a severe humanitarian crisis for years, prompting millions of people to leave the country in search of safety and better living conditions. The earthquakes have added another layer of suffering for communities already facing significant economic and social hardship. Caritas organizations have been supporting Venezuelans throughout this crisis, both inside the country and in neighbouring nations such as Colombia. Since 2020, Caritas Poland has provided hundreds of tonnes of humanitarian assistance, supporting local communities and Venezuelans who have fled the country. For Caritas, the current emergency requires both immediate relief and sustained support as affected families begin the long process of recovery.

International solidarity

Caritas Poland is part of the worldwide Caritas network, which works through local organizations to respond to humanitarian emergencies and support vulnerable communities.

Following the earthquakes, Caritas organizations from across the world have mobilized alongside Caritas Venezuela. International teams have been supporting efforts in areas including water and sanitation, nutrition, healthcare and emergency shelter.

As the immediate emergency response continues, the needs of earthquake survivors remain enormous. For families who have lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods, international solidarity is becoming an essential part of the road to recovery.

Caritas Poland cooperates with 195 branches in different countries, photo credit: Caritas Polska, Vatican News

Piotr Kowalczuk, vaticannews.va/pl