Broward launches relief drive for Venezuela earthquake victims

Broward County is launching a countywide relief campaign to collect essential supplies for communities in Venezuela devastated by a pair of powerful earthquakes that struck on June 24, causing widespread destruction and claiming many lives.

Beginning Monday, July 6, residents and businesses will be able to donate critical items to support recovery efforts as affected communities work to rebuild homes, restore power and recover essential services.

The county is seeking donations of non-perishable foods, personal hygiene products, baby items, pet supplies and disaster recovery gear, including tents, sleeping bags, first aid kits, solar-powered lights, tarps, batteries and work gloves. Officials said used clothing and linens are not needed.

"Broward County is home to one of the largest and most vibrant Venezuelan communities in the country, and when our neighbors' families back home are hurting, we hurt too," Broward County Mayor Mark D. Bogen said.

"The devastation caused by the recent earthquakes demands more than just thoughts and prayers; it requires immediate tangible action. By launching this countywide relief fund, we are creating a direct, secure pipeline for our community to provide essential supplies and financial support to those on the ground. Broward County has always stood tall in times of humanitarian crisis, and I have no doubt our residents will show that same profound generosity and solidarity now," he added.

Starting July 6, donation bins will be available at six Broward County library locations. Collection sites include the Miramar Branch Library and Education Center, 2050 Civic Center Place, Miramar; North Regional/Broward College Library, 1100 Coconut Creek Boulevard, Coconut Creek; Northwest Regional Library, 3151 N. University Drive, Coral Springs; South Regional/Broward County Library, 7300 Pines Boulevard, Pembroke Pines; Southwest Regional Library, 16835 Sheridan Street, Pembroke Pines; and West Regional Library, 8601 W. Broward Boulevard, Plantation.

The Miramar Branch Library and Education Center will accept donations Monday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The branch is closed on Sundays. The remaining libraries will be open Monday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Additional drop-off sites will be available daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at several Broward County parks, including Brian Piccolo Park, 9501 Sheridan Street, Cooper City; Central Broward Park and Broward County Stadium, 3700 NW 11th Place, Lauderhill; Markham Park, 16001 W. State Road 84, Sunrise; Tradewinds Park and Stables, 3600 W. Sample Road, Coconut Creek; and T.Y. Park, 3300 N. Park Road, Hollywood.

County officials said the effects of the earthquakes are expected to linger for months and even years as communities struggle to rebuild and recover, and they are urging residents and businesses across Broward to contribute to the relief effort.