For these children, the earthquakes in Venezuela changed everything
The Shattered Lives of Maria and Damian
For these children the earthquakes in Venezuela – Ten-year-old Maria clings to memories of the day her mother was lost, a moment that irrevocably altered her life. Alongside her brother Damian, 13, they were displaced after a series of powerful twin earthquakes obliterated their home in Caraballeda, a coastal town in Venezuela. Now under the care of their aunt, Mercedes Osul, Maria frequently recounts the tragedy to her new guardian. Damian, however, remains silent, channeling his emotions through play rather than words.
Coping Mechanisms and Child-Friendly Spaces
While adults focus on rebuilding, children navigate fear, loss, and uncertainty. Maria finds solace in sweets, a simple act that mirrors her need for comfort. Damian, on the other hand, escapes into a makeshift soccer field, where he joins other displaced children in makeshift games. These spaces, known as Child Friendly Spaces, are designed to help youth process trauma through structured activities and guided interaction. Manuel Rodríguez Pumarol, a UNICEF representative, explains that the goal is not immediate discussion of the disaster but fostering a sense of security.
“Through play and group dynamics, children can begin to express themselves, release stress and trauma, and regain the safety they’ve lost,” Rodríguez Pumarol tells CNN.
Supporting Families and Youth
Mercedes Osul, who now cares for her niece and nephew alongside her own children, has adopted a gentle approach. Advised by the shelter’s psychologist, she lets Damian process his grief through soccer rather than pressuring him to speak. “They told me to let him vent, that this is a way to vent,” she recalls. This support extends to the adults, helping them manage their own sorrow while providing stability for the children.
Impact on Thousands of Children
The earthquakes upended lives, forcing thousands of children to abandon their homes and disrupt their routines. Many lost family members, friends, or access to education. In temporary shelters, the focus is not only on survival but also on restoring normalcy. Andrea Lasso, an Emergency Response Manager with World Vision, highlights the importance of spaces where children can play board games, craft, or sports.
“They need a place where they can feel safe again, be protected, and interact with other children,” Lasso explains to CNN.
Challenges in Shelter Access
Despite efforts, ensuring shelter safety remains a hurdle. Aid workers report instances where unscrupulous individuals exploit the crisis, targeting vulnerable children. “We’ve seen people who aren’t affected by the disaster but take advantage of the situation,” Lasso says. This highlights the need for vigilant oversight to protect displaced youth.
A Future in Focus
UNICEF estimates 650,000 people may require aid, including 234,000 children. The impact ranges from those who lost homes to those affected by disrupted services like water and medical care. Rodríguez Pumarol emphasizes that safeguarding children’s futures is a priority. Educational centers are now being used as temporary camps, with efforts underway to restore schooling for displaced students.
