Two Months Later, Peace Winds Continues to Aid Earthquake-Affected Communities in Venezuela
Two months after twin earthquakes devastated Venezuela, Peace Winds teams remain on the ground working to fill gaps in providing essential support to survivors. We are working alongside local partners to identify unmet needs and reach communities that have received little or no assistance through other efforts.
Meeting material needs is a big part of this. Over the past several weeks, Peace Winds has been helping get essential supplies to more than 4,000 people. This includes hygiene kits, baby supplies, and menstrual health products.
In partnership with the Japan-Venezuela Chamber of Commerce, Peace Winds is also working with local restaurants to serve hot meals to disaster survivors who lost jobs and homes. This keeps families healthy and nourished while also helping small businesses get back on their feet.
Beyond meeting physical needs, Peace Winds is also working with another local partner to provide psychosocial support for survivors who are grappling with unimaginable trauma. Teams are conducting outreach, organizing group sessions, and referring those who need more specialized care to other providers. We are also helping evacuees rebuild connections and a sense of community. For children, activities such as tea parties offer a chance to play and have fun during a difficult time.
Finally, Peace Winds’ response also extends to animals and the people who care for them. Recently, our team distributed pet food and other supplies at a McDonald’s that is now serving as an animal shelter, vet clinic, and pet support hub. Local veterinarians and volunteers are treating pets while also working to reunite dogs, cats, and rabbits who have been separated from their families.
“Today, there was even a cat and owner who reunited after being apart for 30 days,” one volunteer told the Peace Winds team.
We will continue to listen to survivors as we work to fill the gaps that remain. Looking forward, Peace Winds plans to expand our hot meal distribution, support for local business, and psychosocial programs. Thank you for helping make this possible.