Volunteers in Doral worked through the night this week assembling pallets of food, water, and medical supplies bound for Venezuela, where back to back earthquakes have killed hundreds and injured thousands.
The Global Empowerment Mission, a Doral-based humanitarian group, activated its emergency response after two quakes struck off Venezuela’s northern coast on June 24. The U.S. Geological Survey measured the first at magnitude 7.2 and a second, larger shock at magnitude 7.5 less than a minute later. Venezuela’s health minister has reported around 235 dead and 4,300 injured, and officials warn the toll could rise as crews search collapsed buildings.
The group, which has worked in Venezuela since 2018, says it aims to move the most aid to the most people in the shortest time. Staff said the first team members were expected to reach the region on Friday.
The effort has drawn deep support from Doral, home to the largest Venezuelan community in the United States. Board member Jorge Perez called the city ground zero to really help and make a difference.
Lines of cars stretched outside the group’s warehouse on Northwest 84th Avenue. GEM’s director of U.S. logistics, Billy Richardson, described one of the first times he had seen lines of cars for donations that long, noting that vehicles were still pulling up well after closing time.
The City of Doral has partnered with the group, opening drop off points across the area including Doral Legacy Park, the Supervisor of Elections office, the El Arepazo restaurant, and Nu Stadium. Organizers are requesting nonperishable food, bottled water, hygiene products, first aid items, and household basics.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who calls South Florida home, said he expected many residents to step forward and provide assistance.
