The back-to-back earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24 have caused widespread devastation across the country. With search and rescue operations growing more dire, the UN reports there are likely 50,000 people still missing.
New York City is home to more than 17,000 Venezuelans, making this tragedy deeply personal for our local community. Across the boroughs, New Yorkers are forming impromptu assembly lines and coming together to send much-needed aid to the front lines.
If you are looking for ways to support the relief efforts, local businesses and international organizations are currently collecting physical supplies and monetary donations. Here is how you can help right now.
Where to drop off donations in NYC
About 20 donation locations have been set up. If you want to drop off physical items, several local businesses are acting as community collection centers.
- Lulla’s Cafe (169 Graham Avenue, Brooklyn): They are collecting donations to fill an entire shipping container. The cafe is working with a nonprofit to arrange shipments directly to Venezuela.
- Arepas Café (3307 36th Avenue, Queens): This beloved restaurant in Astoria is serving as a drop-off hub for community relief.
- Coppelia (207 W 14th Street, Manhattan): This location is accepting physical donations 24 hours a day.
- Casa Ora (148 Meserole St, Brooklyn): Donations are actively being accepted at this location.
- Food Fair Fresh Market (Bronx): Donations can be dropped off at both the 2467 Jerome Avenue and 1056 E 163rd Street locations from 7am to 10pm.
What items are needed the most
Volunteers are primarily packing non-perishable food items, medicines, and essential supplies. Because survivors are dealing with severe trauma from falling buildings, relief workers urgently need specific medical goods:
- First aid and medical supplies are absolutely critical to treat lacerations, broken bones, and crush wounds.
- Orthopedic supplies and hygiene kits are also in high demand right now.
Where to send financial support
While physical supplies are incredibly helpful, monetary donations are the most effective and immediate way to help. Before you give, you should do research on sites like Charity Navigator and Guidestar to ensure the organization is reputable.
- UN OCHA and Caritas: The NYC Mayor’s Office officially recommends donating through these trusted humanitarian organizations.
- The We Love Foundation: They are providing food, water, medical support, and shelter supplies. They have a verified GoFundMe campaign to expedite the transfer of funds.
- World Central Kitchen: Their relief team is working with local partners to serve freshly made meals to displaced families.
- Direct Relief: This organization is coordinating with local partners to deliver emergency medicine, with 100% of donations going directly to the earthquake response.
- The Yummy App: You can use this app from anywhere in the world to purchase groceries and medical supplies for direct, local delivery to donation centers in Venezuela.
How to locate missing loved ones
We know many families are enduring the agony of trying to find missing relatives. If you or someone you know needs help locating a loved one in Venezuela, official channels are available:
- Contact the Venezuelan Embassy directly by emailing contacto@embaveus.net.
- Reach out to the American Red Cross by calling their dedicated helpline at 844-782-9441.
- You can also submit an International Reconnecting Families Inquiry Form directly through the American Red Cross.
