GENEVA / RankWire.AI / – The International Organization for Migration has issued a $98 million appeal to aid Venezuela in its earthquake response. The requested funds will support 12 months of emergency relief and early recovery initiatives. This appeal comes in the wake of the earthquakes on June 24 that caused destruction in northern and central regions of the country. As of July 16, authorities reported 4,930 fatalities and 16,740 injuries. Many families remain without access to secure housing. The appeal emphasizes shelter, health services, and early recovery as key components of the response effort.
The IOM plan encompasses site coordination, protection services, and assistance for damaged public infrastructure. It also includes interventions for water supply systems, healthcare facilities, and other vital services. The agency identified La Guaira, the Capital District, Miranda, Carabobo, Aragua, and Falcón among the affected zones. Numerous communities are still grappling with destroyed homes and disrupted utilities. Overcrowded collective centers have heightened the demand for shelter and basic necessities. IOM indicated that the funding would target both heavily impacted and underserved localities.
So far, IOM has supported nearly 6,000 individuals in collective shelters under its coordination. It has provided more than 10,000 services since the earthquakes occurred. These services include temporary housing, healthcare, and protection support. Local teams have expanded their operations across the affected regions. Coordination involves government agencies, local communities, and humanitarian partners. The organization explained that this structure helps ensure aid reaches verified needs. The response strategy also integrates emergency relief with early recovery planning.
Earthquake Relief Focuses on Shelter and Essential Services
The appeal aims to deliver secure and dignified shelter during the recovery phase. It includes support for families residing in collective centers or temporary accommodations. Additionally, IOM plans to assist in repairing critical services within affected communities. Activities encompass shelter management, healthcare, protection, and early recovery efforts. Teams will evaluate needs and allocate assistance to damaged and underserved areas. The approach combines immediate relief with practical recovery actions. Funding will also enhance coordination with government institutions and humanitarian partners.
The disaster on June 24 involved two earthquakes with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, occurring roughly 40 seconds apart in northern Venezuela. The seismic events caused intense shaking in densely populated zones. Aftershocks further complicated rescue operations and damage assessments. Homes, hospitals, roads, and water infrastructure suffered extensive destruction. Several states experienced significant disruptions to public services and transport networks. As a result, many residents have been forced into shelters or other forms of temporary housing.
Widespread Humanitarian Needs Persist in Affected Areas
Humanitarian assessments highlight significant needs among children and families. An earlier estimate indicated that 1.8 million people required humanitarian aid, including approximately 680,000 children. Critical needs include access to safe water, sanitation, medical treatment, shelter, and protection services. The IOM appeal allocates dedicated funding for displacement and site management operations, as well as recovery initiatives related to damaged services and community infrastructure. These activities are structured around the organization’s 12-month response framework.
IOM Venezuela chief Lia Poggio emphasized that recovery efforts will need ongoing support. She stated that families require accommodation and assistance in restoring essential services. The agency plans to collaborate with government agencies and local partners. Its appeal outlines a year-long plan for emergency assistance and recovery. The $98 million request will fund shelter, health, protection, and coordination programs. It will also support early recovery efforts in the most affected and underserved areas. IOM reaffirmed that the response will continue to prioritize verified needs across the affected communities.