NewsChicago Sun-TimesJuly 1, 2026United States
Chicago residents organize relief efforts for Venezuela earthquake victims
Community organizations in Chicago are collecting donations and supplies to assist victims of recent earthquakes in Venezuela. Local groups like MESA Chicago and the Alianza Venezolana de Illinois are coordinating the shipment of essential goods to Miami for transport to the affected region.
Read the full story at Chicago Sun-TimesWhy It Matters
Local residents and organizations are mobilizing to provide physical supplies and financial support for disaster relief in Venezuela, with ongoing collection efforts at sites in Washington Park and La Villita.
Key Facts
- Two earthquakes occurred in Venezuela less than a week prior to June 29, 2026, resulting in over 1,000 deaths.
- La Tiendita, located at 5627 S. Michigan Ave, is serving as a collection point for earthquake relief supplies.
- Requested items include medicine, diapers, hygiene products, and personal protective equipment for rescue volunteers.
- MESA Chicago is collecting items to fill a U-Haul for transport to Miami.
- The Alianza Venezolana de Illinois loaded approximately 250 boxes of supplies in La Villita for transport to Miami.
- Global Empowerment Mission is responsible for the final transport of goods from Miami to Venezuela.
- Organizers state that financial donations are the most effective way to support the high costs of logistics and transportation.
- Relief collection efforts are expected to continue for several months or up to a year.
Who's Mentioned
personDani Salazar“Volunteer at La Tiendita and resident with family in Venezuela.”organizationGlobal Empowerment Mission“Disaster relief organization handling transport to Venezuela.”locationCoppin Community Center“Location of the La Tiendita donation site in Washington Park.”organizationLa Tiendita“A free store and food bank located at 5627 S. Michigan Ave.”personLuciano Pedota“Interim Executive Director of the Alianza Venezolana de Illinois.”organizationAlianza Venezolana de Illinois“Group coordinating relief efforts in La Villita.”organizationMESA Chicago“Community organization supporting immigrant families.”personArcelia Guerrero“President of MESA Chicago and director of La Tiendita.”