Aiding Venezuela: Helping those in need.

The health challenges faced by Indigenous peoples are linked to the social and physical environments in which they live. The adverse health factors experienced by Indigenous peoples, including low income, poor access to formal education, high unemployment, inadequate access to safe drinking water, sanitation, and health care, high food insecurity, poor housing, lack of adequate and formal support systems; and stigmatization, undermine their health. That's why, after four years of the COVID-19 pandemic being declared, indigenous people continue to be identified as particularly vulnerable to COVID-19.

Since it poses a higher threat to Indigenous communities, which increases the risk of COVID-19 transmission, Wayuu Taya has continued working to help minimize the impact of sickness on these communities.

This report details some of our achievements during 2023 to help reduce the impact of the pandemic through our Food, Water, Health, and Hygiene Programs: 

Nutritional Support and Clean Water

In 2023, our "Water for All" program distributed 1,171,800 liters of water at no cost, targeting hospitals, schools, health centers, elderly centers, and NGOs, ensuring clean water for 47,487 people.

Our food program distributed vegetables, fruits, and grains to 35 communities, 62 schools, 55 institutions, and NGOs, totaling 189,159 kilograms of food and providing 626,299 meals. This effort offered weekly meals to over 12,000 children, benefiting more than 15,887 people, helping to mitigate high food insecurity, which threatens their health. 

We conducted nutritional assessments in communities and schools to help identify nutrition problems among indigenous children. As a result, 54 children received specialized treatment for malnutrition. 

Health and Hygiene Programs

Throughout 2023, we remained committed to health, hygiene, and personal care. 109,126 people received hygiene kits and personal care items. The hygiene program benefitted 60 communities, 45 schools, 28 NGOs, and 86 institutions. This support highlights the importance of hygiene in preventing illnesses, including COVID-19.

Also, 6,840  people in schools, hospitals, and community kitchens benefitted from installing 30 portable handwashing stations. This action promoted accessibility to handwashing, preventing the spreading of diseases. Portable handwashing unit facilities make access more accessible and faster for a wash and provide important visual cues for users to wash their hands before eating, handling foods, or any time they require it. 

The medicine distribution and medical supplies supported 191 institutions and benefited 55,157 people. Additionally, we distributed PPE products and infrared thermometers to 34 schools, benefiting 8,267 people.  

Your generosity plays an essential role in our mission to enhance community well-being. Through your support, we are empowered to provide access to critical resources such as nutrient-rich foods, clean water, medicines, and hygiene products.

Thank you so much!