NewsWBEZ ChicagoJuly 1, 2026United States
Chicago community groups organize relief for Venezuela earthquake victims
Chicago-based community organizations are collecting donations and supplies to assist victims of recent earthquakes in Venezuela. Local groups like MESA Chicago and the Illinois Venezuelan Alliance are coordinating the shipment of goods to Miami for transport to the affected region.
Read the full story at WBEZ ChicagoWhy It Matters
Residents can participate in ongoing disaster relief efforts by donating specific hygiene, medical, and safety supplies or money to cover transportation costs for aid shipments to Venezuela.
Key Facts
- Two earthquakes occurred in Venezuela less than a week prior to June 29, 2026, resulting in over 1,000 deaths.
- La Tiendita at 5627 S. Michigan Ave is accepting donations of medications, hygiene items, and personal protective equipment.
- MESA Chicago is collecting items to fill a U-Haul for transport to Miami.
- The Illinois Venezuelan Alliance is loading 250 boxes of supplies in Little Village for transport to Miami.
- Global Empowerment Mission is the partner organization responsible for moving supplies from Miami to Venezuela.
- Donations of money are requested to cover the costs of transporting goods to Miami and Venezuela.
- Relief collection efforts are expected to continue for several months or up to a year.
Who's Mentioned
organizationMESA Chicago“Grassroots organization supporting immigrant families.”personDani Salazar“Volunteer at La Tiendita who has family in Venezuela.”personMichael Puente“Reporter for WBEZ.”organizationGlobal Empowerment Mission“Disaster relief organization handling transport from Miami to Venezuela.”organizationLa Tiendita“A free store and food pantry serving as a donation drop-off point.”organizationIllinois Venezuelan Alliance“Group coordinating relief efforts in Little Village.”locationCoppin Community Center“Location of the La Tiendita free store in Washington Park.”personArcelia Guerrero“President of MESA Chicago and director of La Tiendita.”personLuciano Pedota“Interim executive director of the Illinois Venezuelan Alliance.”