Malta’s Venezuelan Community United in Solidarity After Quakes

Malta’s Venezuelan Community United in Solidarity, One Week After Devastating Quakes

In the heart of Valletta, at the bustling Strada Reale, the scent of fresh bread from il-Biskuttin ta’ San Ġorġ mingles with the aroma of strong coffee from il-Kajjtar. But today, the usual chatter is replaced by a somber atmosphere. The Maltese community is united in solidarity with their Venezuelan counterparts, one week after the devastating earthquakes that have claimed nearly 2,000 lives.

Malta’s Venezuelan Community Comes Together

Malta’s Venezuelan community, numbering around 2,000, has been left reeling by the tragedy unfolding thousands of miles away. Many have family and friends back home, and the distance has only amplified their anxiety. “It’s like a part of you is missing,” says Maria Rodriguez, a Venezuelan expat living in Msida. “We’re all trying to help in any way we can.”

In the past week, Maltese NGOs and local councils have been inundated with calls from Venezuelans eager to volunteer, donate, or simply offer a listening ear. The Malta Red Cross has set up a collection point at their Floriana headquarters, where Venezuelans can drop off supplies and share updates. “We’ve seen an outpouring of support from the Maltese public,” says Red Cross spokesperson, Joseph Muscat. “But it’s the Venezuelan community’s resilience and unity that’s truly inspiring.”

Searching for Survivors, Hoping for Miracles

Back in Venezuela, rescue efforts continue, with teams working tirelessly to locate survivors under the rubble. In Malta, the wait for news is agonizing. “We’re hoping for miracles,” says Luis Alvarez, a Venezuelan engineer living in Birkirkara. “But we’re also preparing for the worst.” Alvarez is one of many Venezuelans in Malta who have set up WhatsApp groups to share updates and coordinate relief efforts.

Local businesses have also stepped up. Bistro 1874 in Sliema is donating a percentage of its sales to relief efforts, while il-Kajjtar in Valletta has set up a collection box for customers to contribute. “It’s the least we can do,” says owner, Joseph Vella. “We’re all part of the same community, whether we’re from Malta, Venezuela, or anywhere else in the world.”

As the search for survivors continues, Malta’s Venezuelan community remains united, drawing strength from each other and the outpouring of support from the Maltese public. “We’re grateful for every act of kindness, every prayer, every donation,” says Rodriguez. “It reminds us that, even from so far away, we’re not alone.”