How New Yorkers Can Help Venezuela Earthquake Victims
Two earthquakes tore through Venezuela, killing more than 1,000 people and leaving thousands without homes or basic supplies. As international aid efforts ramp up, New York City is responding in its own way — turning local restaurants and businesses into emergency donation hubs. Here is exactly how you can help right now.
Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela recently, destroying homes, roads, and infrastructure — and killing more than 1,000 people. Thousands more are in urgent need of food, water, and basic supplies. While international aid organizations have begun responding, communities in New York City are not waiting. Local restaurants, businesses, and officials have turned their spaces into donation drop-off points to collect and ship relief supplies directly to those affected.
What You Can Donate
Most drop-off centers in New York City accept non-perishable food items — things like rice, canned beans, and bottled water. Many also accept hygiene products for children and families, as well as shipping materials like cardboard boxes and packing tape. Some locations go further, accepting power banks, generators, and other emergency equipment. Monetary donations are also welcome at many sites to help cover the cost of shipping supplies to Venezuela.
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It is important to call ahead before you visit any drop-off location. The items needed can change throughout the day depending on what has already been collected. Check the organization's social media pages for updated hours and accepted donations. Some groups also need volunteers to help sort and pack items for shipping — hours and locations for volunteering may differ from regular business hours.
Organizations Accepting Money Donations
If you prefer to donate money, several reputable international organizations are accepting contributions for Venezuela earthquake relief. These include Catholic Relief Services, Global Impact, the International Red Cross, the International Rescue Committee (IRC), UNICEF USA, and the Victoria Venezuela Foundation — a nonprofit focused specifically on improving lives in Venezuela through education, healthcare, and humanitarian aid.
What to Do
- Call ahead before visiting any drop-off location — accepted items change throughout the day.
- Donate non-perishable food such as rice, canned beans, or bottled water, or bring shipping supplies like boxes and packing tape.
- Give money to a trusted organization like the International Red Cross, IRC, or UNICEF USA if you cannot donate goods in person.
- Volunteer your time — contact local organizations to find out when and where help is needed to pack and organize supplies for shipping.
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For Venezuelan nationals currently in the US, a humanitarian disaster of this scale may strengthen an existing asylum or Temporary Protected Status (TPS) claim if Venezuela is designated — consult an immigration attorney promptly to review how current conditions in Venezuela affect your case. If you are in removal proceedings, your attorney can file a motion to present updated country condition evidence. Do not wait — deadlines in immigration court move quickly, and missing one can cost you your case.