Responding to the Crisis in Venezuela

Responding to the Crisis in Venezuela

Web Statement

May 21, 2019

Episcopal Relief & Development is supporting the Episcopal Diocese of Colombia in providing assistance to migrants displaced by the ongoing political crisis in Venezuela.

According to the UN, over 94% of the population of Venezuela is now living in poverty. More than 1 million Venezuelans have sought refuge over the border in Colombia. Half of these refugees are between the ages of 19 and 29.

With the support of Episcopal Relief & Development and the diocese, Christ Nativity Church is developing a ministry to support Venezuelan migrants and others in vulnerable situations due to the political climate. Church volunteers distribute food weekly to Venezuelans living in the areas surrounding Bogota, feeding over 150 families to date. They have also provided clothing, food and medical supplies to over 900 refugees passing through en route to other areas of Venezuela. Additionally, the church is using the parish property and other resources to provide shelter to migrants in need.

“Episcopal Relief & Development is working with our partners to provide tangible aid for the Venezuelans who have sought refuge over the border in Colombia,” said Nagulan Nesiah, Senior Programme Officer for Episcopal Relief & Development. “By providing humanitarian services and supplies such as food, medicine and clothing, we are demonstrating God’s love to them. We continue to pray for all those impacted by this crisis.”

Please pray for all those affected by the ongoing crisis in Venezuela. Donations to the International Disaster Response Fund will help Episcopal Relief & Development continue to support a response.

For over 75 years, Episcopal Relief & Development has been working together with supporters and partners for lasting change around the world. Each year the organization facilitates healthier, more fulfilling lives for more than 3 million people struggling with hunger, poverty, disaster and disease. Inspired by Jesus’ words in Matthew 25, Episcopal Relief & Development leverages the expertise and resources of Anglican and other partners to deliver measurable and sustainable change in three signature program areas: Women, Children and Climate.