U.S. Launches Massive Humanitarian Aid Effort for Earthquake‑Stricken Venezuela

In late June 2026, severe earthquakes devastated northern Venezuela, prompting a swift and comprehensive U.S. government response coordinated by the State Department. The operation combines federal agencies, private‑sector partners, and non‑governmental organizations to deliver emergency relief rapidly to affected communities.

Funding Boost

The United States has increased its financial commitment to over $300 million for the relief operation. This includes an additional $50 million allocated to key partner organizations, bringing total support for those groups to $200 million—$100 million in bilateral aid and $100 million through UNOCHA’s pooled fund.

Partner organizations such as Samaritan’s Purse, Catholic Relief Services, UNICEF, IOM, WFP, International Medical Corp, Project Hope, and the Red Cross will provide medical care, food assistance, water and sanitation, shelter, protection, and logistics.

Private‑Sector Collaboration

The State Department is partnering with Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) of Doral, FL, and Walmart to mobilize donations and distribute critical supplies. South Florida residents can drop off requested items at GEM’s warehouse located at 1850 NW 84th Ave, Suite 100, Doral, FL 33126. Walmart stores across the greater Miami area are highlighting needed items and drop‑off locations.

Americans wishing to help can access resources on the dedicated webpage.

Military Support and Logistics

U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) is providing air, sea, and ground assets. The Simón Bolívar International Airport in Caracas has been repaired and reopened for humanitarian flights, with an Air Force expeditionary team managing tower and ground operations. The USS Fort Lauderdale is positioned off the coast of La Guaira, delivering supplies via landing craft and amphibious vehicles, while a naval operations team is assisting with repairs at the damaged port.

Aviation assets—including C‑17 Globemaster III, C‑130H Hercules, MV‑22 Osprey, CH‑47 Chinook, UH‑1Y Venom, and MH‑60 Black Hawk—are conducting aerial surveys, transporting rescue teams, and moving supplies to the frontlines.

Search‑and‑Rescue Deployment

Four Type I Urban Search‑and‑Rescue teams have been deployed to Venezuela, comprising more than 300 first responders and 23 search canines. The teams include Fairfax County Fire and Rescue (79 members, 6 canines), Los Angeles County Fire and Rescue (73 members, 6 canines), Miami‑Dade County Fire Rescue (80 members, 6 canines), and the City of Miami Department of Fire Rescue (79 members, 5 canines). These highly trained units are working around the clock to locate survivors, provide emergency medical care, and conduct structural assessments in the hardest‑hit areas.

Long‑Term Planning and Citizen Assistance

Even as immediate relief efforts continue, the State Department is already planning for the longer‑term needs of the Venezuelan people, including housing for those who have lost their homes.

The Trump Administration prioritizes the safety of U.S. citizens. The State Department is providing continuous consular assistance to Americans in Venezuela. Citizens can reach the emergency line 24/7 at +1‑202‑501‑4444. Family members in the United States may call toll‑free at +1‑888‑407‑4747. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at STEP.state.gov, review the Department’s Travel Advisory for Venezuela, and follow @TravelGov and @USEmbassyVE on social media and WhatsApp for the latest updates.

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