Pop star Shakira has pledged a $500,000 donation to support education initiatives for children impacted by the recent earthquakes in Venezuela.
The tremors, which hit northern Venezuela on June 24 with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, resulted in widespread devastation. To date, over 2,600 people have been confirmed dead, while more than 60,000 remain missing. Thousands more have been injured, and countless families are still without shelter.
Shakira’s contribution will be directed toward rehabilitating educational infrastructure and ensuring that displaced children have uninterrupted access to learning. The funds will be administered through the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which Shakira has actively supported as a board member and advocate.
In a newly released video, Shakira urged football fans and global leaders to join the effort, emphasizing the importance of education in post-disaster recovery. “After the earthquakes, schools are among the most vulnerable institutions. By investing in education, we invest in the future of Venezuela’s children,” she said.
Beyond Shakira’s contribution, other artists have also stepped up. Members of Metallica donated $100,000 via their All Within My Hands Foundation, while Rush released a limited-edition t-shirt to fundraise for victims.
Disturbingly, all four members of the Venezuelan nu-metal band Van Der Dijs lost their lives in the disaster. The tragedy has heightened calls for international aid and accelerated relief operations, with teams from neighboring countries and organizations arriving to support search and rescue efforts.
Aftershocks continue to rattle the region, complicating recovery efforts. Despite the challenges, volunteers and humanitarian agencies are working tirelessly to provide emergency shelter, medical care, and basic supplies to affected communities.
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