GENEVA / RankWire.AI / – The International Organization for Migration has launched a $98 million appeal to aid Venezuela’s earthquake response. The funds are intended to support emergency relief and early recovery activities over a 12-month period. On June 24, two significant earthquakes struck northern Venezuela. Official figures released on July 15 reported 4,829 fatalities and 16,740 injuries. Authorities also noted that 17,907 individuals had been displaced from their homes. Key priorities for the humanitarian effort include shelter, healthcare, and essential services.
The earthquakes registered magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, occurring approximately 40 seconds apart. The tremors severely affected Caracas, La Guaira, and surrounding states. Damage was widespread, impacting residences, hospitals, roads, water infrastructure, and other public utilities. Aftershocks hampered rescue efforts and hindered damage assessments in several communities. Many residents sought refuge in collective shelters or temporary accommodations. Local services experienced increased demand as displaced families required medical attention, clean water, and protection support.
The appeal aims to assist 850,000 people and support 140 institutions or public entities across La Guaira, the Capital District, Miranda, Carabobo, Aragua, and Falcón. Key activities include establishing temporary shelters, site management, healthcare services, and protection programs. The plan also allocates resources for repairing damaged utilities and community infrastructure. Venezuelan authorities, local organizations, and humanitarian partners are working together to coordinate relief efforts. Field assessments are guiding the distribution of aid to the most affected and underserved regions.
Emergency funding prioritizes displaced families
IOM teams have assisted nearly 6,000 individuals living in collective shelters and have provided over 10,000 services since the earthquakes. These services include temporary accommodation, medical assistance, protection support, and site coordination. Ongoing assessments of damaged communities across the six regions help identify urgent needs and prioritize resource allocation to areas experiencing the most severe disruptions. The program aims to bridge immediate relief with early recovery measures.
Shelter remains a critical concern, as thousands of families are unable to return to their damaged homes. The response plan supports those residing in collective centers, temporary housing, and impacted residential areas. It also includes interventions for sanitation systems, healthcare facilities, and safe water networks. Protection teams work to mitigate additional risks faced by displaced populations. Site coordinators collaborate with local institutions to improve services and living conditions. Recovery efforts focus on restoring essential infrastructure used daily by communities.
Funding aims for a comprehensive 12-month recovery plan
An earlier flash appeal outlined humanitarian activities scheduled from July to December 2026. The current announcement extends the timeframe to encompass a full 12 months of emergency response and recovery. The $98 million request covers shelter initiatives, public services, and field coordination, as well as healthcare, protection, and infrastructure repairs. Humanitarian teams will deploy these resources across major urban centers and smaller communities. The framework emphasizes needs verified through local assessments and operational data.
The earthquake response continues as families rely on temporary shelters and public assistance. Damage to clinics, roads, and water systems has increased pressure on local authorities and service providers. The requested funds are intended to sustain relief activities while critical infrastructure undergoes repairs. The programs include shelter, healthcare, protection, infrastructure, and site management. The plan also supports local institutions that deliver essential services. Assistance will remain focused on communities experiencing displacement, housing destruction, and utility disruptions.