Venezuelans in Argentina and UN agency create solidarity network for earthquake victims

Venezuelan expatriates in Argentina, in collaboration with the UN Refugee Agency (ACNUR), have established a solidarity network to support victims of the recent devastating earthquakes in Venezuela. The initiative, named Red de Ayuda a Venezuela (Network for Aid to Venezuela), seeks to coordinate fundraising efforts from Argentina to provide assistance to those impacted by the seismic events.

The program aims to unite companies, entrepreneurs, organizations, institutions, and individuals interested in raising funds for the regions hardest hit by the twin earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude. Official reports indicate the quakes resulted in at least 2,954 fatalities, 16,592 injuries, and left over 16,300 people homeless, in addition to causing severe material damage.

A core principle of the network is "zero intermediation." Donations will not be managed by Alianza por Venezuela, the civil society organization comprising Venezuelan residents. Instead, contributions will be made directly to ACNUR via an official campaign link. This direct channel ensures that resources reach the organization responsible for humanitarian response, guaranteeing transparency and direct impact. The funds will bolster ACNUR's ongoing efforts in affected communities, including the provision of emergency shelters, blankets, mattresses, hygiene kits, essential household items, and aid for the most vulnerable populations.

Campaigns can take various forms, such as donating a percentage of sales, organizing concerts, workshops, raffles, sporting events, auctions, or community collections. Alianza por Venezuela plans to periodically share reports on the collective impact of the initiative and updates from ACNUR regarding the use of funds in Venezuela. Venezuelan authorities are currently assessing the damage and working to clear debris, ten days after the devastating earthquakes.