Beyond the rubble: Helping children heal as Venezuela endures ongoing aftershocks
One month after two devastating earthquakes struck Venezuela, children and families continue to face fear, uncertainty and loss.
Since two powerful earthquakes of magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 struck on June 24, Venezuela has experienced more than 1,400 aftershocks, leaving communities across La Guaira State, Caracas and neighbouring areas living in constant uncertainty.
"Every time there is an aftershock, it feels like we are reliving the bigger earthquakes of June 24. The continued aftershocks have increased anxiety, nervousness and uncertainty among people," says Ilvania Martins, National Director of SOS Children's Villages Venezuela.
The emotional toll on children is growing
While emergency responders continue clearing rubble and searching for survivors, the long-term impacts of the disaster are becoming increasingly visible, particularly for children.
"We have only seen the beginning of this tragedy. We will now begin to see the full effects and consequences,” says Ilvania.
Many children have lost their homes or been forced into temporary shelters, while repeated aftershocks continue to undermine their sense of safety. According to Ilvania, children are showing clear signs of trauma, while caregivers are also struggling to cope:
"We are seeing post-traumatic stress, fear − especially children experiencing night fears − panic attacks and anxiety as a result of the post-earthquake situation.”
"We are also working to support primary caregivers. Adults are also affected and need support to care for children and others under their responsibility. All this is happening while they are living with stress, fear and uncertainty because they are staying in shelters or no longer have a home."
Supporting children beyond the immediate crisis
SOS Children's Villages continues to provide emergency humanitarian assistance, helping thousands recover while addressing both their immediate and long-term needs.
Our response includes:
- Providing mental health and psychosocial support for children, parents and caregivers.
- Referring children and families to specialized psychosocial support and child protection services when additional care is needed.
- Operating a free phone support hotline to help children, families and caregivers cope with the emotional impact of the continued aftershocks.
- Creating child-friendly spaces to give children safe places to play, learn and begin to recover.
- Distributing food, dignity and hygiene kits, medicines and other essential supplies.
- Facilitating awareness sessions for families on household safety, child protection, family preparedness and coping strategies to reduce protection risks and strengthen community resilience.
As communities begin the long road to recovery, SOS Children's Villages remains committed to ensuring children have the care, protection and support they need to rebuild their lives.
How you can help
Recovery will take years. As aftershocks continue and children's emotional needs grow, SOS Children's Villages Venezuela is expanding its response to reach more families.
Your support helps us deploy additional child protection and mental health professionals, create more child-friendly spaces, and reach more children and families with essential support.