On Wednesday 24 June, Venezuela was struck by two catastrophic earthquakes within seconds of each other. They were the most powerful earthquakes to hit Venezuela in over a century.
The UN estimates that millions of people have been affected, with more than two million in the worst impacted areas. According to the UN, 680,000 children are in need of humanitarian assistance – that’s more than the number of children in Wales. Families have lost loved ones, homes and the sense of safety and security they once knew.
In the hours following the devastating earthquakes, I spoke with Carlos E. Mejia, Christian Aid Head of Impact in Latin America and Caribbean. He shared with us that people need blankets, towels, hygiene kits, water, food and psychosocial support.
‘People are experiencing huge loss and distress – loved ones, homes and livelihoods, gone within seconds.
You are not far away from us; this world belongs to all of us. These are the times to exercise our global citizenship. Actions of solidarity move us all forward, towards the dignity and happiness that we all deserve. I urge the people of Wales, as I urge people everywhere, to act as citizens of the world today as you remember your brothers and sisters in Venezuela.’
- Carlos E. Mejia
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On 1st July, a Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) appeal was launched across the UK to meet the escalating needs of people fighting for their survival. On this day we joined with our DEC Cymru partners outside the Senedd in Cardiff Bay. Christian Aid is one of the 15 DEC member charities and one of 5 member charities in Wales. By working together, we know we can go further and faster to reach those most in need.
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Sharing the call to prayer and to give, Archbishop of Wales, The Most Revd. Cherry Vann, said:
‘No-one could fail to be moved by the tragic human suffering caused by the devastating earthquakes in Venezuela.
“Our hearts go out to the victims and their families, and we hold the nation of Venezuela in our prayers, asking God to equip and strengthen the rescuers and aid workers and to comfort and protect those who are afflicted. As part of our calling as Christians, we also urge practical and financial support for our agencies such as Christian Aid which are working to help all those affected by the disaster. Their work in bringing hope to people in the most heartbreaking circumstances could hardly be more vital.’
Diolch / Thank you
The support and solidarity from people here in Wales and around the UK is so vital - it's keeping hope alive. We are incredibly thankful for every prayer, every collection and every donation.
£800,000 raised in Wales up to July 16, diolch!
A prayer for all those affected by the Venezuela earthquakes
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.
