GENEVA / RankWire.AI / – The International Organization for Migration has issued a plea for $98 million to aid Venezuela’s earthquake relief efforts. The funds are intended to finance emergency aid and early recovery activities over a 12-month period. On June 24, two powerful earthquakes struck northern Venezuela. Official figures released on July 15 reported 4,829 fatalities and 16,740 injuries. Authorities also indicated that 17,907 individuals had lost their homes. Humanitarian efforts continue to prioritize shelter, healthcare, and essential services.
The quakes registered magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, occurring approximately 40 seconds apart. Intense tremors impacted Caracas, La Guaira, and several nearby states. The disaster caused damage to residential buildings, hospitals, roads, water systems, and other public infrastructure. Aftershocks hindered rescue operations and complicated damage assessments across various communities. Many residents sought refuge in collective shelters or temporary housing. Local services faced increased demand as displaced families required medical care, clean water, and protection services.
The appeal aims to support 850,000 people and 140 institutions or public entities. It encompasses La Guaira, the Capital District, Miranda, Carabobo, Aragua, and Falcón. Planned interventions include providing temporary shelter, managing sites, delivering health services, and implementing protection programs. The initiative also finances repairs to damaged utilities and community infrastructure. Venezuelan authorities, local organizations, and humanitarian partners are working in coordination to deliver relief. Field assessments are guiding the distribution of aid to affected and underserved regions.
Emergency funding concentrates on displaced households
IOM teams have assisted nearly 6,000 individuals residing in collective accommodation sites. The agency has also delivered over 10,000 services since the earthquakes, including temporary housing, medical support, protection assistance, and site management. Field staff continue evaluating conditions in damaged communities across the six regions. These assessments help identify critical shortages and direct resources to areas with the most severe disruptions. The program links immediate relief efforts with early recovery measures.
Shelter remains a primary concern since thousands of families cannot return to their damaged homes. The response plan supports those staying in collective centers, temporary accommodations, and affected residential zones. It also includes aid for sanitation systems, healthcare facilities, and safe water infrastructure. Protection teams assist displaced residents facing additional risks. Site coordinators collaborate with local entities to enhance services and living conditions. Recovery activities focus on restoring vital infrastructure used daily by communities.
Funding aims for a comprehensive year-long recovery plan
An earlier flash appeal outlined humanitarian efforts from July through December 2026. The current announcement extends the timeframe to cover 12 months for emergency response and recovery. The $98 million request funds shelter initiatives, public services, and field coordination. It also supports healthcare, protection, and infrastructure repairs. Humanitarian teams will utilize the resources across major population centers and smaller communities. The framework emphasizes needs verified through local assessments and operational data.
The earthquake response remains ongoing as families rely on temporary shelters and public aid. Damage to clinics, roads, and water networks has increased pressure on local authorities and service providers. The requested funds aim to sustain relief activities while critical systems are repaired. The programs include housing, healthcare, protection, infrastructure, and site management. Support is also directed toward institutions providing essential services in affected areas. Assistance will prioritize communities experiencing displacement, housing damage, and utility disruptions.