Relief efforts to support victims step up to assist after Venezuela earthquakes

As Venezuelans continue to recover from the devastating 7.2 and 7.5 earthquakes that struck the region on June 24, killing over 2,000 people, injuring thousands more and with nearly 50,000 people missing, efforts from around the world have begun to descend on the South American country to help in the recovery efforts.

One of those entities that have chosen to support the people in Venezuela is T-Mobile, which has waived charges for international long-distance calls, text messages and roaming in Venezuela for eligible customers through Monday, July 6 and ending on Tuesday, July 7.

For T-Mobile Postpaid and UScellular customers, the waived charges apply retroactively beginning June 26. T‑Mobile Prepaid, Metro by T‑Mobile, Mint Mobile, Ultra Mobile and Assurance Wireless customers have also received waived charges, which began June 29. 

Additionally, Flow/Liberty Caribbean, the operator of Flow, Liberty Business and BTC, have waived charges for international long-distance calls and texts to Venezuela until July 6. 

“When communities are affected by natural disasters, the first instinct for many people is to reach the ones they love. In moments like these, a simple phone call can bring reassurance, hope and comfort. We want our customers to know that, during this difficult time, staying connected to family and friends in Venezuela should be one less thing to worry about,” said Britta Reinhardt, Chief Commercial Officer, Liberty Caribbean.

In terms of hands-on support, USA-2 team members of the Los Angeles County Fire Department’s Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Task Force have also joined USA-1 from the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department and FLTF-1 from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue on the ground in Venezuela. The L.A. team landed on June 26. 

According to the L.A. County Fire Department, three USAR teams with a combined total of 312 members and 18 canine teams are composed of highly trained firefighters, physicians, structural engineers and canine search specialists.

The teams are aided by more than 200,000 pounds of highly specialized equipment to help in search-and-rescue operations in Venezuela as the United States attempts to aid Venezuelans after the earthquake. 

“We are proud and thankful to represent the U.S. on this mission, bringing our expertise and compassion to assist those affected by the devastating earthquakes,” said the department in a statement on X.

Locally, businesses, churches and nonprofits have taken the initiative to support those impacted by the devastating earthquakes in Venezuela by creating donation centers for people who want to support victims. 

Venezuelan restaurants Full Arepas in L.A., Venezuelan Chamo Cuisine in Pasadena and Nova Bakery in Long Beach opened their doors shortly after the quakes struck. 

Full Arepas recently announced in a social media post that Olarte Transport Service will transport goods donated.

“A very special thank you to Olarte Transport Service for believing in this mission and donating us six containers to make it possible to ship all this humanitarian aid to our country. Your support has been instrumental in bringing this hope to those who need it most,” stated an organizer on social media.

Other organizations around Los Angeles accepting donations are the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, St. Paul Catholic Church and local Catholic parishes. 

Moreover, Global Empowerment Mission and Community Organization Relief Effort are also accepting food and medical kits for the international disaster.