Action Against Hunger launches its emergency response in Venezuela

In the first 24 hours following the emergency that has struck Venezuela, the priority remains finding survivors amongst the rubble. However, at the same time, the needs of thousands of people who have been left homeless, without access to drinking water or basic hygiene facilities, must be addressed.

Against this backdrop, Action Against Hunger is coordinating its response with local partners on the ground and has begun distributing essential aid. The organisation will also support rescue teams by providing basic equipment — such as helmets and torches — whilst simultaneously delivering direct assistance to the affected population as priorities are defined by the authorities.

Water, hygiene and shelter: the most urgent needs

The situation in the affected areas remains extremely volatile. The organisation’s teams, together with other organisations, have carried out an initial assessment of the affected areas and have observed a worrying reality: as is often the case in similar situations, many families are unable to return to their homes for fear of further structural collapses. The aftershocks recorded in the early hours have heightened the sense of insecurity and forced many people to spend the night outdoors.

In light of this situation, Action Against Hunger is coordinating with local organisations to ensure the distribution of drinking water, hygiene kits and water treatment solutions, along with specific kits for women — including menstrual hygiene — and older people. Guaranteeing access to safe water and basic hygiene conditions is essential to prevent a rapid deterioration in health over the coming days.

Health, nutrition and psychological support: key elements of the response

Health is another major concern, and the country’s entire healthcare system (both public and private) is fully focused on responding to the emergency. The organisation is concentrating its efforts on coordinating with health authorities to organise medical clinics, whilst assessing the resources available to strengthen healthcare provision.

The psychological impact of the emergency is already evident. Fear, anxiety and stress characterise the situation of thousands of people who have lost everything in a matter of hours. Action Against Hunger has a team of psychologists trained in psychosocial first aid, enabling it to offer emotional support from the earliest stages of the emergency, when it is most needed.

Protecting the most vulnerable people is also a critical priority. Women, children and older people face additional risks in situations of displacement and homelessness. For this reason, all response efforts are incorporating a protection-centred approach, with a particular focus on preventing situations of violence and vulnerability.

“The emergency is not just what lies beneath the rubble. Acting now is key to preventing the situation from worsening even further,” says Benedetta Lettera, head of operations for Action Against Hunger in Latin America.