10:35, 09 July 2026
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
Humanitarian teams continue to reach communities devastated by the recent earthquakes in Venezuela.
According to UK for UNHCR — the UN’s Refugee Agency — conditions in the worst-affected areas have deteriorated rapidly. Food shortages, damaged infrastructure, disrupted communications and the collapse of essential services have left thousands struggling to meet their most basic needs.
As Emma Cherniavsky, Chief Executive of UK for UNHCR, said: "Right now, thousands of people are dealing with unimaginable loss, of loved ones and their communities.
“UNHCR is there, working with local authorities and partners to help meet the immediate, essential needs of survivors – water, blankets, finding somewhere safe for families to sleep – as well as with support to handle the trauma they've experienced. But more support is urgently needed to help the most vulnerable affected by this crisis."
In the face of such profound loss, there are powerful reminders of resilience. Families are opening their homes to relatives and neighbours, local organisations are working tirelessly alongside humanitarian agencies, and emergency relief is reaching those who need it most.
The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has rapidly expanded its emergency response, delivering shelter, essential relief items, protection services and mental health support while coordinating efforts to reunite separated families and safeguard those most at risk.
More than 20 tonnes of additional humanitarian aid are being mobilised from UNHCR's global stockpile to reinforce relief efforts.
Venezuela was already facing significant humanitarian and economic challenges before the earthquakes struck and this disaster has compounded existing vulnerabilities. Humanitarian crises can feel overwhelming, but every act of generosity helps restore safety, dignity and hope to the people affected.
As Venezuela begins the journey towards recovery, the commitment of UNHCR, its partners and supporters around the world shows that humanity can come together to help alleviate the plight of others.
Find out more about the specific humanitarian situation in Venezuela here, or directly support UNHCR's emergency response here.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
UNHCR. This is a global organisation dedicated to saving lives, protecting rights, and building a better future for forcibly displaced communities. They don’t just work with asylum seekers and refugees, but also people who are stateless and affected by disasters. Find out more.
Refugee Action. This charity helps refugees build safe, hopeful and productive new lives in the UK. Learn more here. Find out more here.
Amnesty International UK. This is an international NGO focused on human rights. They work to expose abuse and injustice around the world. Support them here.
Photo credits: © UNHCR/Andrea Sarabia
