As disasters like the earthquakes in Venezuela unfold, we're reminded of our call to stand alongside our global neighbours. Not just with prayers, but with tangible support.
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally, has added her voice to the DEC Venezuela Earthquake Appeal. She's calling on people across the UK to search their hearts and respond to the people of Venezuela in this moment of crisis.
‘Our brothers and sisters in Venezuela are facing immense hardship following two catastrophic earthquakes and the many aftershocks. At moments such as these, we are called not to turn away from suffering, but to respond with compassion and practical support for our neighbours in need.
‘The launch of the DEC Venezuela Earthquake Appeal today brings together humanitarian charities who are working with local partners to reach affected communities with urgent assistance.
‘I encourage all who are able, to support the DEC Venezuela Earthquake Appeal. Your generosity can help provide vital assistance to those affected and offer hope at a time of great need. Please keep the people of Venezuela, and all those responding to this crisis, in your prayers.’
- Archbishop Sarah Mullally, Archbishop of Canterbury
Together with the 14 other charities that make up the DEC, we're launching a UK-wide appeal to meet the escalating needs of people affected by the earthquakes.
The scale of the crisis
- More than 2,200 people have been killed, with tens of thousands more reported missing.
- More than 11,000 people have been injured, putting hospitals under extreme pressure.
- Millions of people have been affected, with more than two million in the worst-hit areas.
- An estimated 680,000 children are in need of humanitarian assistance.
- Around 96,000 buildings are believed to be damaged or destroyed, including hundreds of schools.
Image credits and information
Families are sleeping in makeshift tents on the street, with little protection from the heat and rain. Power lines and roads have been destroyed, cutting people off from essential supplies.
Venezuela was already facing a severe economic crisis before the earthquakes struck, and the needs are now overwhelming.
How you can help
We’re releasing emergency funds to our network of trusted local partners active in the epicentre of Caracas and La Guaira. Our partners are on the ground, which means your generosity could help them provide:
- Water hygiene kits, including water purification tablets and a water filter
- Dignity kits, including underwear and sanitary products, for adolescent girls
- Food, including lentils for protein, grains, cooking oil and salt
- Or cash, so that people can buy food for a household
Donate today and help our partners reach families with the essentials they need most.
At moments such as these, we are called not to turn away from suffering, but to respond with compassion and practical support for our neighbours in need.
Image credits and information
Pray with us for the people of Venezuela
Loving God,
When the earth trembles and homes fall to dust, hold our hearts, God.
When grief shakes families to the core, hold our hearts, God.
Send our hands and feet to help however we can.
Our sisters and brothers in Venezuela live this now.
God of love and mercy, may we match your love in the way we respond - now.
Your donation supports families who've lost everything in the Venezuela earthquakes.
