Two earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, struck Venezuela within seconds of each other on 24 June. According to the latest official figures reported this week, more than 3,500 people have died, over 16,000 have been injured, and nearly 18,000 have been left homeless. The state of La Guaira and the capital, Caracas, were the worst affected, with thousands sheltering in temporary accommodation as recovery efforts continue.
Jesuit Missions is the international development organisation of the Jesuits in Britain. It is working as part of the Xavier Network, which coordinates Jesuit emergency responses worldwide, and has activated its emergency mechanism to ensure support reaches the communities most affected.
Partners on the ground are carrying out rapid assessments of urgent humanitarian needs while already providing temporary shelter, essential relief items, protection services and psychosocial support to individuals and families. Alongside meeting immediate needs, they will continue to accompany communities through the long process of recovery.
Br Stephen Power SJ, Socius of the Jesuits in Britain and Chair of the Jesuit Missions Committee, said:
“As Jesuits, we cannot look away from the suffering of the Venezuelan people. Fifteen days after these earthquakes, the scale of loss is still becoming clear, and for many the hardest part of this crisis is only beginning. Pope Leo has called us not to forget Venezuela, and we want our actions to answer that call.
“We are grateful for the work of Jesuit Missions and our partners on the ground. Our prayers remain with all those who are grieving, and with all who are working to bring relief and comfort in the midst of such loss.
“I ask all who are able to join us in this effort. The people of Venezuela have not been forgotten, and they should not have to face what lies ahead alone.”
Jonathan Heard, Director of Jesuit Missions, said:
“Forty-two Jesuit schools are currently being used as temporary shelters in Venezuela, helping support some of the estimated 600,000 children and their families affected by the earthquake, providing shelter, water and food in a safe and trusted environment.
“This donation from the Jesuits in Britain is an important show of solidarity and compassion to the Jesuit family affected by the earthquake, but more importantly will have a significant impact on those whose lives have been affected the most.
“We continue to ask you help the people of Venezuela so that we can support all those who seek our help.”
By working through trusted Jesuit partners on the ground, Jesuit Missions is ensuring that support reaches those who need it most.”
Jesuits in Britain is inviting members of the public to join this effort by donating to the Jesuit Missions Venezuela Emergency Appeal.
Please give today to help the people of Venezuela: Emergency Appeal: help families affected by earthquakes in Venezuela - Jesuit Missions
