Salesians remain on front lines helping those in need

(MissionNewswire) Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, has launched an emergency appeal for donations in the wake of two devastating earthquakes measuring magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 that struck Venezuela* on June 24, 2026. The earthquakes have left widespread destruction, loss of life and thousands of families in urgent need.

Father Michael Conway, director of Salesian Missions, said, “Our missionaries remain on the ground, providing shelter, food, comfort, and hope to those who have lost everything, even as rescue efforts continue amid damaged infrastructure and communication outages. The needs are immense and growing by the hour. Our donors can help deliver critical emergency aid and bring relief to vulnerable children, families, and communities struggling to survive this humanitarian crisis.”

According to the latest report from the St. Luke Province Planning and Development Office, based in Caracas, several Salesian institutions have sustained damage. The worst affected are the Don Bosco school and church in Sarría, which have sustained serious structural damage. Further damage has been reported in Altamira, La Dolorita, and Mariches and at the San José secondary school.

Salesian missionaries who have been contacted are safe and there have been no casualties within the Salesian Family to date. Salesians are working on the front lines to provide relief to youth and families in need and will be there long after for the rebuilding process.

Father Fabio Attard, rector major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, immediately expressed his solidarity. He said in a statement, “We are following the events in Venezuela with deep concern. I wish to express my personal solidarity, and that of the entire Salesian Congregation, with our confreres, the young people and the families affected. In this time of great trial, you are not alone: we are united with you in prayer and in concrete solidarity, asking the Lord to sustain the relief and reconstruction efforts.”

Salesian missionaries have been living and working in Venezuela long before the country’s political and economic crisis began. They operate schools, youth centers, and other programs that support youth in need and their families. Salesian communities will remain steadfast in their commitment to serving the most vulnerable.

To give to the special Venezuela Earthquake Fund, visit https://salesianmissions.org/lp/venezuela-earthquake/ .

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Venezuela – Deep concern and Salesian solidarity following the earthquake

Salesian Missions – Venezuela

*Any goods, services or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.