Venezuelan NFL Player Aids Earthquake Victims in Homeland

New England Patriots kicker Andrés Borregales joined a solidarity drive in Doral, Florida, to aid those affected by recent earthquakes in Venezuela. The 23-year-old Venezuelan player, who moved to South Florida in 2004, helped sort and pack essential supplies at the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) logistics center.

The initiative was prompted by two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24. The U.S. Geological Survey reported magnitudes of 7.5 and 7.2 for the quakes, which occurred near San Felipe and Morón on the Caribbean coast. The event, described as a "doublet," caused significant damage, including the collapse of homes, hospitals, and schools, and disrupted water and electricity services. International media reported over 1,900 deaths and more than 10,500 injuries.

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We can't be there physically right now, which is very hard, but we continue to help in every way possible. That's why we are here.

Despite his successful NFL career, including being the first Venezuelan to play in a Super Bowl, Borregales maintains strong ties to his homeland. "We can't be there physically right now, which is very hard, but we continue to help in every way possible. That's why we are here," he told WPLG Local10. His sister is safe, but he noted that many families were not as fortunate.

Borregales and his wife, Stephanie, volunteered their time to prepare humanitarian aid. GEM is accepting donations at its collection center in Doral, Florida, with a current need for items such as tents, inflatable mattresses, non-perishable food, hygiene products, batteries, and diapers. Borregales encouraged the South Florida community to contribute, stating, "If the only thing you can donate is a box of soap, it's enough. Do what you can."

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If the only thing you can donate is a box of soap, it's enough. Do what you can.