More than a month after two devastating earthquakes of magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 struck northern Venezuela, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul launched a website with resources to support recovery and relief efforts, as well as tips to help the community in New York avoid donation scams.
Hochul is encouraging New Yorkers to support the Venezuelan community as the country has surpassed 5,000 deaths, with more than 16,000 people injured.
With the recent launch of the website, users have several options to donate to organizations that provide community kitchens, long-term medical support and immediate assistance in real time.
The organizations the governor has partnered with through the website include the Hispanic Federation, Aid for LIFE, Casa de Venezuela Orlando and World Central Kitchen.
Additionally, the website offers recommendations to avoid donation scams, as the earthquakes in Venezuela could be used as an opportunity by scammers to set up fake charities and clone legitimate charities’ official websites.
The precautions include keeping information private, understanding how the money will be spent and verifying donation requests, among other steps.
As Venezuela recovers from the natural disaster, Hochul said she reiterates her support for Temporary Protected Status for eligible Venezuelans, emphasizing that people should not be forced to return to countries facing crises.
“One month after the devastating earthquakes, thousands of Venezuelan families, including many here in New York, are still grappling with unimaginable loss and uncertainty,” Governor Hochul said.
Visit the webpage here.