Andorran Groups Ramp Up Aid for Venezuela Earthquake Survivors

Andorran organizations Càritas Andorrana, Unicef Andorra, and the Association of Residents and Supporters of Venezuela in Andorra (AREVPA) have intensified coordinated relief efforts for survivors of the 7.2- and 7.5-magnitude earthquakes that struck Venezuela's north-central coast six days ago.

Venezuelan authorities report 1,450 deaths, more than 3,150 injuries, and thousands missing, with rescue teams still active amid over 430 aftershocks. Earlier figures had listed 1,719 deaths and 5,034 injuries. Unicef estimates 1.8 million people need humanitarian aid, including 680,000 children at high risk from destroyed homes, family separations, and disruptions to water, healthcare, education, and protection services. The quakes damaged at least eight hospitals, such as Caracas's Hospital Infantil J.M. de los Ríos, hampering treatment for children and pregnant women, along with 432 schools in the capital district, many now functioning as shelters. Widespread power, water, and telecom failures continue to aggravate conditions.

Unicef plans to assist 650,000 people, including 234,000 children, through child protection, psychosocial care, water and sanitation, medical and nutritional support, and safe learning areas. The group requires $52 million and coordinates with Venezuelan officials, the United Nations, and partners. Unicef Andorra's emergency appeal remains open via Bizum code 07293 or bank transfers.

Càritas Andorrana recently joined the drive, launching a fundraising campaign for immediate needs. Donations are accepted at accounts in Andorra's three main banks or via Andbank's Bizum code 07399.

AREVPA directs funds to relatives and contacts on the ground while gathering medicines, first-aid kits, and essentials. Collection points have grown to include Centre Cultural La Llacuna, Participació Ciutadana's new offices, Luzlu Nails shop, and Farmàcia Pasteur, in addition to Farmàcia Guitart. AREVPA's president noted that these contributions allow direct aid to the most impacted areas.

The crisis hits close to home for Andorra's Venezuelan community. A Sant Julià de Lòria resident lost two family members in one account, or five in another, while an Andorran of Venezuelan descent awaits word on a missing relative. The groups have offered condolences and stepped up joint action to ease the emotional toll.