Lanzarote Community Rallies to Support Venezuela After Earthquake Tragedy
The Cabildo of Lanzarote has called an urgent meeting with representatives from the Venezuelan community on the island to coordinate humanitarian aid following a devastating double earthquake in Venezuela. On June 29, local officials met with Indira and César from the Asociación de Venezolanos Unidos de Lanzarote to discuss immediate response efforts in collaboration with the Canary Islands Government.
Oswaldo Betancort, the president of the Cabildo, reiterated his solidarity with Venezuelans, emphasising that they are not alone and that Lanzarote is ready to assist. He called on residents and government factions to support those whose lives have been turned upside down by this disaster.
Betancort sought clarity on the most urgent needs in Venezuela, where he was informed that medical supplies—such as blood pressure monitors, oxygen meters, first aid kits, surgical gloves, masks, and medications—are critically required. Baby products like diapers and infant formula are also in high demand, while clothing, especially warm items, is not needed at this time. Betancort assured that Lanzarote’s residents would show their remarkable solidarity as they have in previous crises.
The meeting also included María Jesús Tovar, the Cabildo’s vice president, who inquired about the association’s capacity to store donated items. The representatives confirmed they have a warehouse and experience in crisis situations. Tovar promised that, if necessary, the Cabildo would provide additional space for secure storage until the items could be delivered.
Marci Acuña, the councillor for Social Welfare and Inclusion, pledged to implement measures swiftly to ensure efficient aid delivery to the Venezuelan people. He announced that the Cabildo would set up tents on July 2 and 3 to facilitate the collection of donations.
Kamal, a Venezuelan resident coordinating with the Cabildo, made a public appeal for islanders’ involvement in gathering medical supplies.
Devastating Impact
As of now, the disaster has resulted in a heartbreaking official toll: 1,450 deaths, 3,238 injuries, and over 680,000 children in urgent need. A global help network has mobilised 24 countries, 2,741 rescuers, and over 30,000 volunteers, aided by a rapid allocation of €5 million from the European Union.
The meeting highlighted Lanzarote and La Graciosa’s unwavering commitment to aiding what is often referred to as their “sister island.” Both local authorities and residents reaffirmed their determination to mitigate the effects of this catastrophic crisis on their Venezuelan counterparts.
Moment of Silence
On the same day, a minute’s silence was observed at the Cabildo’s facade at 11:30am to honour the victims of the earthquakes, demonstrating solidarity with Venezuela during this challenging time.
