Malta’s Venezuelan Community: Devastation Back Home

Malta’s Venezuelan Community: A Closer Look at the Devastation Back Home

Imagine waking up to find your childhood home, the one you left behind in Venezuela, reduced to a pile of rubble. This is the harsh reality facing thousands of Maltese citizens of Venezuelan descent, as the South American nation grapples with the aftermath of a 5.9 magnitude earthquake. The quake, which struck on January 21, has left over 58,000 buildings damaged or destroyed, according to the country’s vice president, Delcy Rodríguez.

Malta’s Venezuelan Community: A Closer Look at the Devastation Back Home

The news has through Malta’s Venezuelan community, many of whom have made the Mediterranean island their home. Take Maria, for instance, a 55-year-old woman who lives in Msida. She left Venezuela over a decade ago, but her heart remains in her hometown of La Guaira. “I’m terrified,” she admits, her voice trembling. “I’ve heard that my street is unrecognizable. I can’t even begin to imagine what my family is going through.”

The Human Cost: Maltese Families Torn Apart

The earthquake has not only destroyed buildings but also torn apart families. Many Maltese citizens of Venezuelan descent have relatives back home, and the news of the devastation has left them desperate for information. “I haven’t been able to reach my brother in Caracas,” says Luis, a 38-year-old resident of Birkirkara. “I’m worried sick. I just want to know that he’s okay.”

Malta’s Foreign Affairs Ministry has been working tirelessly to assist Maltese citizens in Venezuela. They have set up a hotline and are providing consular assistance to those affected. “We are doing everything in our power to help our fellow Maltese citizens,” says a ministry spokesperson. “We urge anyone with family in Venezuela to contact us if they need assistance.”

Malta’s Response: Solidarity and Support

Malta’s response to the crisis has been swift and heartfelt. The Malta Red Cross has launched an appeal to raise funds for those affected by the earthquake. “We stand in solidarity with the people of Venezuela,” says a spokesperson for the organization. “We will be sending humanitarian aid to support those in need.”

Meanwhile, the Maltese government has announced that it will be providing financial assistance to Maltese citizens of Venezuelan descent affected by the earthquake. “We are committed to supporting our fellow Maltese citizens in their time of need,” says a government spokesperson.

Back in Msida, Maria is grateful for the support. “It’s comforting to know that we’re not alone,” she says. “Malta has been our home for many years, and it’s heartening to see the island come together to support us in our time of need.”