GENEVA / RankWire.AI / – The International Organization for Migration has issued a $98 million appeal to address the aftermath of Venezuela’s earthquake. The requested funds are intended to cover 12 months of emergency response and early recovery measures. The appeal follows the earthquakes on June 24 that caused widespread destruction in northern and central regions of the country. As of July 16, authorities reported 4,930 fatalities and 16,740 injuries. Many families remain without secure housing. The appeal emphasizes shelter, health services, and early recovery as key priorities in the response effort.
The IOM plan encompasses site coordination, protection services, and support for damaged public infrastructure. It also includes efforts to restore water systems, health facilities, and other critical services. La Guaira, the Capital District, Miranda, Carabobo, Aragua, and Falcón are among the areas identified as affected. Numerous communities continue to grapple with damaged homes and disrupted utilities. Overcrowded collective sites have heightened the need for shelter and basic care. IOM stated that the funding would aim to assist both severely impacted and underserved locations.
To date, IOM has helped nearly 6,000 individuals in collective sites under its coordination. It has provided over 10,000 services since the earthquakes, including temporary shelter, healthcare, and protection assistance. Local teams have expanded their operations across the affected regions. The response is coordinated among government authorities, local communities, and humanitarian partners. IOM highlighted that this structure ensures aid is directed according to verified needs. The effort also integrates emergency support with early recovery planning.
Earthquake Relief Focuses on Shelter and Core Services
The appeal aims to ensure safe and dignified shelter throughout the recovery process. It includes support for families living in collective sites or temporary accommodations. Additionally, IOM plans to assist in repairing essential services within affected communities. Activities encompass shelter management, healthcare, protection, and early recovery initiatives. Teams will conduct needs assessments and allocate assistance to damaged and underserved areas. The organization explained that this approach combines immediate relief efforts with practical recovery actions. Funding will also enhance coordination with public institutions and humanitarian partners.
The June 24 earthquakes involved two tremors measuring 7.2 and 7.5, striking roughly 40 seconds apart in northern Venezuela. These quakes caused intense shaking across densely populated zones. Aftershocks further complicated rescue operations and damage assessments. Homes, hospitals, roads, and water networks suffered extensive destruction. Several states experienced significant disruptions to public services and transport links. Many residents were forced into shelters or other temporary housing options due to the damage.
Major Humanitarian Needs Persist Across Impacted Regions
Humanitarian assessments have identified significant needs among children and families. An earlier estimate indicated that 1.8 million people required humanitarian aid, including approximately 680,000 children. Critical needs include access to safe water, sanitation, medical services, shelter, and protection. The IOM appeal allocates specific funds for displacement and site management activities. It also supports recovery efforts related to damaged infrastructure and community services. These activities are structured around a 12-month response framework.
IOM Venezuela head Lia Poggio emphasized that recovery will demand ongoing support. She noted that families need both shelter and assistance in restoring essential services. The organization intends to collaborate with government agencies and local partners. Its appeal outlines a year-long plan for emergency aid and recovery. The $98 million request will finance programs focused on shelter, health, protection, and coordination. It will also fund early recovery initiatives in the most severely affected and underserved areas. IOM reaffirmed that its response will continue to prioritize verified needs across all impacted communities.