AUSTIN, Texas — As Venezuela reels from two devastating earthquakes, organizations across Central Texas are stepping up to help survivors thousands of miles away.
The Austin Venezuelan Association is raising money and collecting donations to provide emergency relief to families affected by the disaster. The community effort comes as multiple nonprofits and relief organizations, including some based in Texas or with strong ties to the state, mobilize to support rescue and recovery efforts.
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Officials say more than 1,400 people have been killed and thousands more injured after the powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela. Search-and-rescue operations continue as crews race to find survivors trapped beneath collapsed buildings.
Many residents say neighbors have taken on much of the rescue effort themselves, reporting that few government rescue teams have reached some of the hardest-hit communities.
“We want support. We want heavy machinery. We want to take our family members with us,” one resident said while pleading for additional help.
Among the groups responding is Mercy Chefs, a disaster relief nonprofit that spent the past year serving flood victims in Kerr County. The organization says its established network of five permanent feeding sites in Venezuela allowed local partners to begin serving hot meals immediately after the earthquakes. Additional members of its global disaster response team are expected to arrive in the coming days.
Meanwhile, the Austin Venezuelan Association is asking Central Texans to support relief efforts through financial donations. The organization says contributions will help provide food, medical supplies, hygiene items and other essential resources to families impacted by the disaster.
“In moments like these, our community has always responded with compassion. Every donation, no matter the size, brings hope to families facing unimaginable hardship,” said Elyzabeth Gunz, president of the Austin Venezuelan Association.
Despite the widespread destruction, rescuers continue to find survivors. Video from the disaster zone shows emergency crews pulling a baby alive from the rubble, showing a rare moment of hope as search efforts continue.
The United States has also joined the international response. The U.S. Department of State and U.S. Southern Command have shared updates showing American personnel assisting with rescue operations, including teams credited with saving additional lives.
The Austin Venezuelan Association says donations can be made through its online fundraiser or by visiting www.venezuelaenaustin.org for more information.