Venezuelan expat Josué Ramírez frantically tries to get in touch with loved ones back home after two back-to-back earthquakes rocked the country. The massive quakes, which struck in quick succession, have left a trail of destruction and loss across Venezuela, prompting an outpouring of grief and solidarity from the Venezuelan diaspora in Calgary.
Community in mourning
Members of Calgary's Venezuelan community gathered to share stories of pain and resilience. Many have been unable to reach family members, with communication lines down in the hardest-hit areas. 'It's all damaged,' said a Winnipeg man relieved his family is safe, echoing the anxiety felt by many across Canada.
Canada has pledged $5 million in humanitarian aid to support earthquake relief efforts in Venezuela, as announced by Prime Minister Mark Carney. The aid will be channeled through international organizations to provide food, shelter, and medical assistance.
Stories of loss and hope
Ramírez described the moment he heard about the quakes: 'I was terrified. My phone wouldn't connect, and I didn't know if my parents were alive.' After hours of trying, he finally received a text message confirming their safety, but many others have not been as fortunate.
The earthquakes, which measured 7.3 and 6.8 on the Richter scale, have caused widespread damage to infrastructure, including hospitals and schools. The death toll is expected to rise as rescue teams reach remote areas.
According to the Venezuelan government, at least 50 people have been confirmed dead, with hundreds injured and thousands displaced. The country's already fragile economy has been dealt a severe blow, with oil production facilities and transportation networks affected.
Resilience in the face of adversity
Despite the tragedy, stories of resilience have emerged. Community leaders in Calgary are organizing fundraisers and donation drives to send supplies to affected areas. 'We will not stop until our people are safe,' said one organizer.
Canada's humanitarian aid is part of a broader international response, with the United Nations coordinating relief efforts. The Canadian Red Cross has also launched an appeal for donations to support earthquake victims.
For many Venezuelans in Calgary, the earthquakes have reopened old wounds from the political and economic crisis that forced them to leave their homeland. 'We left to build a better life, but our hearts are still there,' said Ramírez. 'Now, we must help rebuild.'
