After two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude struck northern Venezuela less than a minute apart, an estimated 3.9 million children are living in the affected areas. The disaster comes on top of a severe economic crisis and political turmoil, leaving already vulnerable children and families in even greater need. At least 1,430 people have been killed, more than 3,000 injured, and homes, schools and critical infrastructure have been destroyed.
Schools, health facilities and child protection systems have been disrupted, leaving children at increased risk of injury, family separation, displacement, psychological distress and disease. In the hours and days ahead, children will need protection, psychosocial support, safe water, health care and safe spaces as communities recover from the shock and destruction.
UNICEF is on the ground working with government and humanitarian partners to deliver lifesaving assistance for children and families affected by the earthquakes. The response includes mobilizing $3.5 million in emergency funding, delivering 68 metric tons of critical supplies, including medical equipment and safe water supplies, and helping children access health care, nutrition, protection, psychosocial support and education as communities begin to recover.
UNICEF is working urgently to help children and families recover from this devastating disaster. Your support helps UNICEF meet the urgent needs of children today while continuing to provide lifesaving assistance as communities recover. Flexible donations allow UNICEF to respond quickly to changing needs and ensure help reaches children where it is needed most.
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