In the three months following the magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 earthquakes that struck the north-central part of Venezuela on 24 June, the Church of the Nazarene mobilized its communities to provide aid and support to families facing the aftermath of various emergencies. As of September, nearly 850 people affected by disasters in the country received direct assistance through Nazarene Compassionate Ministries (NCM).
The response has been made possible thanks to generosity from around the world and the willingness of dozens of volunteers who have participated in three phases of relief efforts. Through the delivery of food, drinking water, medicine, and other essential supplies, along with emotional and spiritual support, those serving seek to share God’s love to the disaster victims.
In La Guaira, one of the hardest-hit areas, 20 volunteers served 300 people, distributing food, drinking water, hygiene kits, blankets, and first aid to meet the immediate needs of the families.
One response phase targeted children and their care in hospitals. Thirty volunteers participated, helping 250 people, including 200 children in temporary shelters and at the Pérez Carreño hospital.
The distribution of essential supplies, educational resources, and recreational materials was paired with emotional and spiritual support, addressing both the material needs and the well-being of the recipients.
In Boca de Aroa, 30 volunteers and pastoral staff worked to provide approximately 300 people with food, medicine, and clothing. Their efforts were part of a commitment to walk alongside communities during their recovery.
The mobilization also fostered unity among the five districts of the Church of the Nazarene in the country, which activated as collection and logistical support centers. The Llanos District facilitated the transport of donations and the participation of volunteers from Nazarene Youth International (NYI) and Church Development. Meanwhile, the Andino District coordinated efforts with the fire department to safely transport the collected supplies, while the Lago District set up a youth camp to collect hygiene products and medicines.
The Jesus the Hope church, located in San Diego, Carabobo State, served as the main base of operations for sorting, packing, and distributing donations to La Guaira and other affected areas.
As the response transitions into recovery of families, NCM in Venezuela is preparing a new assistance proposal for communities affected by flooding in Chabasquén, in the Llanos District.