TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – Two weeks after powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela, students at Florida State University are collecting donations to support families and first responders affected by the disaster.<\/p>\n
The Venezuelan Student Association (VENSA) is gathering nonperishable food, clothing, medical supplies, hygiene products and more for communities in Caracas and La Guaira.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen you\u2019re so far away, it can get really difficult,\u201d said VENSA President Sofia Gomez. \u201cYou want to do something, so this is the best way we can help right now.\u201d<\/p>\n
For many members, the effort is personal.<\/p>\n
Vice President Melany Sarcevic said her grandmother\u2019s home in Caracas was severely damaged, forcing her to relocate, while other friends and relatives are in critical condition.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m still remaining very hopeful and faithful for them,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Despite the tragedy, organizers say they have been encouraged by the community\u2019s response and are preparing another shipment of donated supplies.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s a country that needs so much support, especially right now with everything that\u2019s going on,\u201d said Sarcevic.<\/p>\n
VENSA will continue accepting donations for as long as they are needed. <\/p>\n
Donations can be dropped off at the student union on FSU\u2019s campus.<\/p>\n
To keep up with the latest news as it develops, follow WCTV on Facebook<\/a>, Instagram<\/a>, YouTube<\/a>, Nextdoor<\/a> <\/a>and X<\/a> (Twitter<\/a>).<\/p>\n Have a news tip or see an error? Write to us here<\/a>. Please include the article\u2019s headline in your message.<\/p>\n Be the first to see all the biggest headlines by downloading the WCTV News app. Click here<\/a> to get started.<\/p>\n Copyright 2026 WCTV. All rights reserved.<\/p>\n