Volunteers have departed for Venezuela
Nine volunteers from the Aruban Red Cross departed on Sunday morning for Venezuela as part of the first humanitarian aid mission following the powerful earthquake that affected the country. The team consists of volunteers who have undergone various trainings and possess experience in disaster response. According to Marylaine Lopez, disaster coordinator for the Aruban Red Cross, this first mission has a dual purpose. In addition to providing immediate assistance, the team will evaluate the situation on the ground to prepare for the next phase of the operation.
“From the Red Cross, nine volunteers are departing. Each volunteer has their own training and experience. The plan is to go provide support, but also to assess the situation and gather information that we can bring back to Aruba to prepare the next team.” The participating volunteers are part of the Disaster Response Team of the Aruban Red Cross. They have received specialized training to act during natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies. Within the group, there are several certified individuals, such as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and Emergency Medical Responders (EMRs), who are trained to provide first medical aid. “The first group will set up the temporary hospital and handle all the logistics. That way, the next medical team can start their work as quickly and organized as possible.” Lopez expressed her pride in the commitment shown by the volunteers in accepting the challenge of representing Aruba in an international mission. “I am very happy that my colleagues accepted this challenge. I am sure we will do a great job and that we will fly not only the Red Cross flag but also the Aruban flag very high in Venezuela.”
According to Lopez, despite Aruba being a small country, the support being provided carries great meaning for the Venezuelan people and also for the Venezuelan community living in Aruba. “The bit of help we are going to provide means a lot to Venezuela. It shows solidarity and a sincere desire to help during a difficult time.” The Aruban Red Cross invests throughout the year in training, practicing, and preparing its volunteers to be able to respond to emergencies both in Aruba and within the Caribbean.
“We continue to train and keep our volunteers active. Not only for emergencies in Aruba, but also when a neighboring country needs support.” Lopez used the occasion to invite the community to become volunteers for the Aruban Red Cross. “The Red Cross is always looking for new volunteers. Those who want to contribute to the community can join us, undergo training, and become part of a team that is ready to help when it is needed most.”
This mission was made possible thanks to the close coordination between the Aruban Red Cross, the Government of Aruba, the Crisis Management Office (CMO), and various international partners. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Mike Eman, all necessary logistical and administrative preparations were completed to make it possible for the first team to depart quickly for Venezuela.
