Raleigh, Sandhills communities rally to support Venezuela after devastating earthquakes
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (WTVD) -- Support is pouring in from the Sandhills after powerful back-to-back earthquakes hit Venezuela. Nearly one thousand people are dead and more than 3,300 injured.
On Wednesday, two massive quakes struck just minutes apart, devastating communities and sending families desperately searching for loved ones.
Thousands remain missing, countless homes are destroyed, and many survivors are left without basic necessities.
Diego Morales, owner of Ricarepas, a Colombian-and-Venezuelan restaurant in Fayetteville, has quickly become a leader in local relief efforts.
"Right now we're trying to help the most we can," Morales said, as he described nonstop calls with his family in San Felipe, Yaracuy, just west of Caracas, where some of the worst destruction occurred. "Right there was really bad. But my family's there, thank God they're good."
As news of the disaster spread, members of the Fayetteville community stepped in to help. "Nos han traído una ropita," Morales said, which translates to "They have brought clothes."
Morales hopes the community will continue to unite in support by collecting much-needed supplies for those affected by the earthquakes. Donations being accepted include:
- Non-perishable food
- Clothes
- Hygiene products
- Blankets
- Diapers for kids and adults
- Water
"Everything is going to be sent to Venezuela and we're going to appreciate that a lot," Morales said.
Donations will be collected through the weekend at Ricarepas and then shipped to Venezuela from Raleigh, as the Sandhills community rallies to bring hope and help to those in need.
Drop-off Locations
- RicArepas in Fayetteville: 195 Starpoint Dr Ste G
Raleigh Dropoff Locations
- El Mandado Supermarket on East Millbrook Road from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- D'Lujo Griil New Birch Drive in Raleigh.
- Casa Venezuela North Carolina is collecting donations through Sunday at a home on Heron Pond Street in Raleigh.
SEE ALSO | How to help victims of deadly Venezuela earthquakes
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