Itaka—Escolapios in Solidarity with Venezuela

Venezuela has been experiencing a complex humanitarian crisis for years, with causes and manifestations of various kinds: social, political, and economic. As if that were not enough, on June 24, the country was rocked by a powerful earthquake that, according to the most recent official reports, has left 589 dead, 2,980 injured, and 50,000 people unaccounted for or missing—figures that will surely rise as rescue efforts continue and new reports come in. The exact number of collapsed structures is still unknown, but it is estimated to be around 100.

Our infrastructure in the city of Caracas was affected by the natural disaster, with cracks and spalling in some walls that pose a risk to the students’ safety. In the medium term, our children and adolescents must return to the classrooms, and we must be prepared.

Numerous volunteers are leading invaluable initiatives to alleviate the situation, primarily by collecting medical supplies, clothing, and food. However, while we do not overlook the urgent needs, we Piarists know that our schools are spaces for healing, growing, and finding strength in educators and peers—and even for receiving nourishment and monitoring physical and mental health. These are indispensable environments during the emergency we are facing, because rebuilding is healing; rebuilding is also urgent.

The Itaka-Escolapios Network wishes to join this international movement of solidarity by inviting you to make a donation through our bank accounts. Thank you for being there and for giving us the assurance that we can count on your support.