Venezuela Earthquake: UNHCR Association of Japan Launches Emergency Humanitarian Relief Donation Campaign

The Japan Committee for UNHCR (Tokyo, Japan) — the official support partner of UNHCR (the UN Refugee Agency) in Japan — has launched an emergency donation appeal in response to the major earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24, 2026.

On June 24 at 6:00 PM local time, Venezuela experienced consecutive powerful earthquakes measuring magnitude 7.2 and 7.5. Widespread damage to homes and public infrastructure occurred across the country, including the capital Caracas. As of June 26 (according to official reports), 188 people have died, 1,520 have been injured, and 157 remain missing. The situation continues to evolve, with ongoing search and rescue operations.

The Venezuelan government has declared a state of national emergency, prioritizing search and rescue, emergency medical care, and damage assessment. In addition to residential and public infrastructure, eight hospitals have been damaged, and Simón Bolívar International Airport has sustained major damage, resulting in the suspension of all flights.

Your support can make a vital difference in protecting and assisting families affected by this disaster in Venezuela.

UNHCR Association of Japan – Venezuela Earthquake Emergency Donation Website

For details on how to donate and how your support will be used, please visit the link above.

UNHCR's On-the-Ground Response

As the lead agency for the 'Protection Cluster' in Venezuela, UNHCR is working with the government and humanitarian partners to assess needs and coordinate effective relief efforts. UNHCR also co-leads the Infrastructure and Temporary Shelter Working Group, coordinating shelter support with relevant organizations.

This earthquake is expected to have a severe impact on populations already in vulnerable situations. In particular, people who have recently returned to Venezuela face new protection challenges as they attempt to rebuild their lives. In La Guaira State, a temporary shelter housing approximately 140 returnees from the United States collapsed, and search and rescue operations are ongoing.

A woman evacuating with her child immediately after the earthquake (La Guaira State, Venezuela, June 24, 2026) © Reuters/Maxwell Briceno

We Urge Your Emergency Support

As displaced families face prolonged displacement, urgent needs for shelter, household items, and protection services are expected to grow.

UNHCR requires $44.7 million for its 2026 Venezuela response, but only about 11% of this amount has been secured so far.

Your donations will be used for life-saving activities, including protection services for displaced people and the distribution of essential relief supplies.

Examples of What Your Donation Can Provide

A donation of ¥11,000: Provides approximately 6 waterproof tarpaulins (4x6 meters) to protect displaced people from rain and wind

A donation of ¥32,000: Provides approximately 14 solar-powered lamps with charging capability for use in darkness after power outages

A donation of ¥67,000: Provides approximately 1 family-sized tent to shelter those who have lost their homes

*Exchange rate: 1 USD = 149 JPY

*Donations will support emergency relief efforts in Venezuela and other global crises.

*Donations to our organization are eligible for tax deductions (tax incentives). Donation receipts can be used for tax filing.

*Personal information provided during online donations is protected via SSL encryption.

About UNHCR (the UN Refugee Agency)

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, protects and assists refugees, internally displaced persons, and stateless people worldwide. Working with diverse partners, UNHCR operates in approximately 122 countries. It was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1954 and 1981. Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland. https://www.unhcr.org/jp/

About the Japan Committee for UNHCR

Established in 2000, the Japan Committee for UNHCR is the official support partner of UNHCR in Japan. In collaboration with the UNHCR Japan Office, it conducts fundraising and public awareness campaigns to support UNHCR’s global mission. It is a Certified NPO authorized to issue tax-deductible donation receipts. https://www.japanforunhcr.org/