International aid charities coalition, the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC), has launched an urgent appeal to raise funds for people affected by the Venezuela earthquake, which has killed at least 2,000 people and left thousands more injured and in need of medical care.
Some 14 of the DEC member charities are responding in Venezuela including British Red Cross, Oxfam and Save the Children.
In response to the earthquake, which took place on 24 June, they will be providing emergency medical treatment, delivering meals and food baskets, and ensuring people have access to clean drinking water.
The first £2m donated by the British public to the appeal will be matched by the UK government through its UK Aid Match scheme.
Broadcast films supporting the response by DEC charities have been airing on the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5 and Sky.
DEC’s chief executive Saleh Saeed said: “Thousands of people in Venezuela have survived the unimaginable horror of two devastating earthquakes only to face the trauma of missing loved ones and finding their homes and neighbourhoods destroyed.
“Right now, many of these families are sleeping in makeshift tents on the street. They urgently need shelter, food, water, and medical care.
“DEC charities are working around the clock with their local partners to reach people. The needs are overwhelming and the British public’s support could be a lifeline for families affected by this devastating disaster.”
In an update published today, the Foreign Office said it had mobilised £3.8m of emergency funding in total.
The Charity Commission and Fundraising Regulator both urged members of the public to donate to the appeal and other registered charities.
Commission CEO David Holdsworth said: “Giving through registered charities, including those involved in the DEC appeal, is one of the most effective ways to support the relief effort.
“Registered charities are subject to regulation and must account for how they use the money entrusted to them, helping ensure donations reach those who need them most.”
Fundraising Regulator CEO Gerald Oppenheim said: “The best way to make sure your donation has the greatest impact is to give through a trusted, registered charity.
“Taking a few moments to check who you’re donating to can give you confidence that your money is supporting genuine relief efforts.
“Simple steps such as looking for the Fundraising Badge and checking the relevant charity register can help you donate safely and confidently.”
