Nearly three months have passed since two devastating earthquakes struck Venezuela, changing the lives of thousands of families and communities in a matter of seconds. Today, as the immediate emergency gives way to the challenges of recovery, JRS Venezuela continues to walk alongside affected communities, accompanying people on their journey towards healing from what they have been through, helping them gradually regain stability and create the conditions needed to rebuild their lives.

How is JRS Venezuela responding to the emergency?

Since the first days following the earthquakes, JRS Venezuela has been working side by side with partners, local institutions and communities in La Guaira, Miranda and Distrito Capital to ensure a timely, coordinated and effective response. By listening directly to the people affected and actively involving communities in identifying the most urgent needs, it has been possible to develop interventions that respond appropriately to local realities.

This commitment has been carried out in close coordination with other Jesuit partners, building on the expertise and resources already present in the affected areas and strengthening the impact of support provided to the population.

What services is JRS providing in response to the earthquakes in Venezuela?

To help those affected navigate the aftermath of the earthquakes, JRS Venezuela is providing legal information, assistance and counselling services, both individually and in groups. Through these sessions, communities receive practical information on how to exercise their rights in an emergency context, the services available, and the mechanisms for seeking protection in a timely and safe manner. When particularly vulnerable situations arise, individuals are also referred to specialised services and support structures best suited to their needs.

JRS has also organised Psychological First Aid training sessions for community workers, school staff, first responders and community network members. The aim has been to strengthen communities’ capacity to provide initial emotional support to people in distress, identify situations of risk and facilitate access to available services. These sessions have also provided a space for reflection and mutual care for those who accompany everyday the people affected by the emergency.

Listening and psychosocial support spaces have been established for adults, children, and adolescents. These activities help people cope with the consequences of the emergency by strengthening their wellbeing and community connections, while accompanying them on their path to recovery.

Aware that healing and rebuilding take time, JRS Venezuela is developing long-term responses aimed at creating the conditions for a sustainable and lasting recovery.

Your donation enables us to respond quickly to this emergency and support the communities affected.