Medical Supplies and Donations: The Support Venezuelan Expats in Guatemala Are Driving for Disaster Victims
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Venezuelan volunteers in Guatemala are coordinating a massive support effort for those affected by recent events in Venezuela.
- Five collection centers are working with the private sector and authorities to gather urgent medical supplies and emergency items.
- The campaign has shifted focus from food and clothing to specific medical necessities due to logistical and permit requirements.
In Guatemala, representatives of Venezuelan Volunteers are spearheading a significant humanitarian aid effort for individuals impacted by recent crises in Venezuela. Hรฉctor Guรฉdez and Giomaralic Perdomo reported a massive response from the Guatemalan community, with at least five collection centers actively coordinating with private sector partners and local authorities.
The initiative has entered its second phase, which includes facilitating bank deposits to expedite the dispatch of humanitarian aid. The immediate needs identified are medical supplies and items crucial for emergency response. Priority items include sutures, cervical collars, disposable and work gloves, gauze, bandages, adhesive tape, and antiseptics, which can be readily sourced from authorized distributors in Guatemala City.
To streamline the process and maximize shipping efficiency to Venezuela, the campaign is no longer accepting food, clothing, or general medications. This adjustment is due to the special permits required for transporting medicines. Donors are now urged to ensure all contributions are classified to facilitate packaging and optimize space in shipments.
The Association of Venezuelans in Guatemala (Asovegua) is managing this humanitarian campaign, focusing on collecting medical supplies and emergency items for earthquake victims in Venezuela. The initiative has garnered support from the United States, which will facilitate the air transport of donations from Guatemala to Miami, Florida, and subsequently to Venezuela, establishing a vital humanitarian bridge between the three countries with significant Venezuelan populations.
Originally published by Prensa Libre in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.