World Central Kitchen distributes up to 50,000 meals daily in Venezuela after earthquakes
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- World Central Kitchen is distributing 30,000 to 50,000 meals daily in Caracas and La Guaira following recent earthquakes.
- The organization has distributed over 1.1 million meals in affected areas in the past month.
- WCK collaborates with local chefs, suppliers, and volunteers, ensuring food is adapted to local customs and supporting local businesses.
World Central Kitchen (WCK) is providing a critical lifeline to earthquake-affected communities in Venezuela, distributing between 30,000 and 50,000 meals daily in Caracas and La Guaira. Miguel Tortosa, WCK's emergency communications lead, confirmed that the operation has distributed 1.1 million meals over the past month in areas impacted by the tremors.
A field kitchen set up at the Puerto Azul Club in Naiguatรก is the hub for this massive operation. More than 200 collaborators, including local chefs and volunteers, work continuously to prepare food for those in need. The operation also includes the daily distribution of 50,000 to 60,000 bottles of potable water. Logistics combine centralized production at the temporary kitchen with ground transportation to delivery points in La Guaira and the capital.
WCK emphasized that direct collaboration with Venezuelan restaurants, community groups, local staff, and volunteers has been key to achieving these numbers. This joint effort not only ensures the delivery of fresh food adapted to local tastes but also supports agricultural producers and businesses in the affected areas. The organization has also adapted its delivery routes as populations return to their homes or relocate to temporary shelters.
"As more families return to their homes or move to temporary housing, WCK is focusing on food service where it is most needed. Our teams visit neighborhoods every day and work closely with local leaders to understand where families still need support," WCK stated. Brigadistas continue field visits to identify new areas requiring food assistance in the affected zones.
Originally published by El Nacional in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.