UK charities launch Venezuela earthquake appeal

The United Kingdom’s Emergency Committee (DEC) has launched an appeal to help thousands of people injured and displaced by Venezuela’s powerful twin earthquakes.

Fifteen UK aid agencies, including the British Red Cross, Oxfam and Save the Children, are appealing to the public for donations.

More than 1,700 people have died in the seconds since the earthquake struck last Wednesday, the United Nations said, “and the number is likely to rise.” Tens of thousands of people are still believed to be missing.

The charities said money was needed to deliver aid to “survivors in urgent need of shelter, food and water”.

Venezuela’s interim president, Delsey Rodriguez, called the earthquake the worst natural disaster in the country’s history.

At least 5,000 people were injured after the 7.2 and 7.5 earthquakes struck near the capital, Caracas; It reduced hundreds of buildings to rubble, prompting authorities to declare a state of emergency.

Hospitals are overwhelmed by critical supply shortages and the need for help has increased among the homeless.

According to the UN humanitarian coordinator in Venezuela, about 2,500 buildings have been damaged, most of which have been completely destroyed.

Several countries, including the United Kingdom, have deployed search and rescue teams to find survivors as well as medical and humanitarian aid workers.

In some damaged areas, residents are left to do most of the inspection work themselves due to lack of government support.

The United Nations and the US Geological Survey predicted the death toll could reach 10,000.

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said the money raised by the appeal would be up to £2m by the government.

“The people of Venezuela need urgent humanitarian assistance from around the world,” she said.

DEC, External It brings together 15 leading UK charities to provide and deliver aid.

The appeal will be broadcast on the BBC and other media next Wednesday.