Venezuela earthquake recovery faces critical aid shortages

Three months after successive major earthquakes devastated Venezuela, the humanitarian situation remains critical, particularly in the heavily impacted region of La Guaira. Affected populations face severe shortages of potable water, food, and medicine, alongside inadequate temporary housing and slow debris removal processes.

Humanitarian organizations, including Caritas and the Red Cross, report a decline in aid compared to the initial weeks following the disaster. The Red Cross has established a 24-month assistance plan aiming to support 300,000 people, having already provided hygiene and kitchen kits to over 6,000 families. Local workers emphasize the ongoing need for non-perishable food, medication, and water purification tools.

In addition to the physical and economic stagnation, there are rising reports of respiratory issues due to environmental contamination. While some displaced residents have moved to other parts of the country, the demand for assistance continues to grow as families struggle to rebuild their lives amidst the ruins.