Citizens of various nationalities, including Puerto Ricans, Dominicans, and Venezuelans, gathered at collection centers established by the Department of State to help Venezuela, which was devastated by two powerful earthquakes last week. They brought not only essential items like food and medicine but also messages of hope. Venezuelan Yineth Mora, who was volunteering at a center in Guaynabo, expressed her gratitude to the people of Puerto Rico, saying they have been like brothers, providing significant help with items like cash, diapers, and clothing.
Others, like Elly and William Chang, who are Venezuelan at heart, shared their concern for the recovery process and the needs of the elderly. Luis Martínez, from the Dominican community, also contributed to the effort. Different municipalities have set up collection centers, and people can check their town's official social media for information on how to donate.
The earthquakes, which occurred on June 24, caused catastrophic damage and resulted in 1,450 deaths and over 51,000 missing people.