Donation centers have opened across the island to collect food, medical supplies, hygiene products and other essential items for families affected by the devastating earthquakes in Venezuela, which have claimed more than 1,430 lives.
SAN JUAN — Puerto Rico has launched a humanitarian relief effort to support families affected by the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24, as government agencies, municipalities, nonprofit organizations and members of the Venezuelan community across the island begin collecting emergency donations.
The disaster has claimed at least 1,430 lives, left more than 3,200 people injured, and displaced thousands of families, while local and international rescue teams continue searching for survivors trapped beneath collapsed buildings.
In response, the Puerto Rico Department of State, in coordination with Caritas Puerto Rico and Venezuelan community organizations, has established several official donation centers across the island.
Most-needed donations include:
- Nonperishable food
- Basic medications
- First-aid and medical supplies
- Personal hygiene products
- Baby formula and baby food
- Diapers for babies and adults
- Flashlights
- Batteries
- Portable power banks
- Electrical extension cords
- Work gloves
- Safety helmets
Officials have asked donors to avoid bringing liquids to some collection sites due to transportation and logistics limitations.
Official donation centers
Donation centers have been established at the following locations:
- Guaynabo – Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum
- Ponce – Francisco “Paquito” Montaner Stadium
- Manatí – Acrópolis Deportivo
- Mayagüez – Isidoro “Cholo” García Stadium
- Fajardo – Maestro Tomás Dones Hernández Municipal Coliseum
The centers will receive donations beginning Sunday, June 28, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Monday, June 29, through Thursday, July 2, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Several municipalities, including San Juan, Carolina, Aguadilla, Hatillo and Naranjito, have also opened additional collection sites with their own operating schedules.
Additional ways to help
The community-led initiative “Venezolanos Unidos por Venezuela” has also established collection points at restaurants and businesses in San Juan, Bayamón, Carolina, Humacao and Vega Baja to expand the islandwide relief effort.
Those wishing to make financial contributions may do so through Caritas Puerto Rico, which is partnering with humanitarian organizations to distribute aid to affected communities in Venezuela.
Officials encouraged residents across Puerto Rico to participate, emphasizing that every donation can provide critical assistance to families facing one of the country’s worst natural disasters in recent history.
