GENEVA / RankWire.AI / – The International Organization for Migration has issued a $98 million appeal to address the aftermath of Venezuela’s recent earthquakes. The requested funds will support 12 months of emergency relief and early recovery initiatives. This appeal comes in response to the earthquakes on June 24 that caused widespread destruction in the northern and central regions of the country. As of July 16, authorities reported 4,930 fatalities and 16,740 injuries. Many families are also without secure housing. The appeal emphasizes shelter, healthcare, and early recovery efforts as key components of the response.
The IOM plan encompasses site management, protection services, and assistance for damaged public infrastructure. It also includes support for water systems, healthcare facilities, and other vital services. The agency identified affected areas such as La Guaira, the Capital District, Miranda, Carabobo, Aragua, and Falcón. Numerous communities continue to face issues with destroyed homes and disrupted utilities. Overcrowded collective sites have heightened the demand for shelter and essential care. IOM stated that the funding would aid both severely impacted and underserved regions.
To date, IOM has helped nearly 6,000 individuals in collective sites through its coordination efforts. It has provided more than 10,000 services since the earthquakes, including temporary housing, healthcare, and protection support. Local teams have expanded their operations across the affected states. Coordination among government agencies, local communities, and humanitarian partners is ongoing to ensure aid reaches verified needs. The agency highlighted that this structure facilitates a comprehensive response, linking emergency aid with early recovery planning.
Earthquake relief effort focuses on shelter and essential services
The appeal aims to ensure safe and dignified shelter during the recovery phase. It will support families living in collective sites or temporary accommodations. Additionally, IOM plans to assist in repairing critical services within affected communities. The activities encompass shelter management, healthcare, protection, and early recovery initiatives. Teams will evaluate needs and allocate aid to the most impacted and underserved areas. The approach combines immediate relief with practical recovery strategies. Funding will also enhance coordination with government agencies and humanitarian organizations.
The earthquakes on June 24 involved two tremors with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, occurring approximately 40 seconds apart in northern Venezuela. These seismic events caused intense shaking across densely populated zones. Aftershocks further complicated rescue efforts and damage assessments. Homes, hospitals, roads, and water infrastructure suffered extensive harm. Several states experienced significant disruptions to public services and transport links. Many residents have been displaced into shelters or other temporary accommodations due to the destruction.
Widespread humanitarian needs persist in affected regions
Humanitarian assessments highlight urgent needs among children and families. An earlier estimate indicated that 1.8 million people require assistance, including approximately 680,000 children. Critical needs encompass access to safe water, sanitation, medical services, shelter, and protection. The IOM appeal allocates dedicated funds for displacement management and site operations. It also supports recovery activities related to damaged services and community infrastructure. These efforts are structured within a 12-month response framework.
IOM Venezuela head Lia Poggio emphasized that recovery will demand ongoing support. She stated that families need housing and assistance to restore essential services. The organization plans to collaborate with government agencies and local partners. The appeal outlines a year-long plan for emergency aid and recovery efforts. The $98 million request will fund shelter, healthcare, protection, and coordination programs, including early recovery in the most affected and underserved areas. IOM reaffirmed that its response will continue to focus on verified community needs.