Two powerful earthquakes of magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 struck Venezuela late on Wednesday, 24 June, causing widespread destruction and leaving thousands in urgent need of assistance.

JRS has been accompanying communities in Venezuela for decades. JRS Venezuela teams reported that countless people faced uncertainty and loss, with communities struggling to recover from the shock of this life-altering disaster. 

The tremors were most strongly felt in the Caracas Capital District and across the states of Miranda, Carabobo, Yaracuy and La Guaira, where entire communities have been shaken. Homes, schools, healthcare facilities and critical infrastructure have been damaged or destroyed.

The earthquakes have deepened an already fragile situation, particularly for the most vulnerable, including refugees, returnees and other at-risk communities, further exacerbating existing protection risks.

How are we responding?

Efforts have focused on understanding the needs of communities affected by the emergency, strengthening coordination with partners, and establishing the conditions for a response that combines immediate support with actions aimed at building a sustainable recovery.

Activities implemented include socio-emotional support for children and adolescents, safe spaces for listening and emotional support for adults, and both individual and group legal counselling sessions. In addition, Psychological First Aid training sessions have been organised for staff, with the aim of strengthening their capacity to provide initial emotional support, identify signs of psychosocial distress at an early stage, and facilitate referrals to specialised services when required.

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