Ecuador sends over 731,000 aid items to Venezuela

Ecuador has concluded its first national humanitarian aid collection drive, amassing over 731,000 items for Venezuela. The campaign, spearheaded by the National Government, saw 2,111 donations from citizens, private companies, universities, and public institutions. Bottled drinking water and hygiene products were identified as the most critical needs.

The collected goods encompass a range of essential items, including non-perishable food, family tents, mattresses, sheets, mosquito nets, toiletries, diapers, sanitary pads, wet wipes, bath towels, alcohol, water storage containers, and basic non-disposable kitchenware. Technical personnel are meticulously classifying, verifying, and packaging these items to ensure efficient logistical management before their transfer and delivery in coordination with Venezuelan authorities and international organizations.

The first official shipment of humanitarian aid is scheduled to depart from Latacunga International Airport on the same day. This initiative complements Ecuador's ongoing efforts since the emergency began in Venezuela. Meanwhile, 108 Ecuadorian rescuers from the Quito and Guayaquil Fire Departments remain in Venezuela, conducting specialized search and rescue operations in collapsed structures.

Collection efforts continue, with official centers operating daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM across eight provinces. The National Secretariat of Risk Management expressed gratitude for public participation and encouraged continued support for Venezuelan families affected by the ongoing emergency.