Amazon expands Venezuela earthquake relief

SEATTLE — Amazon is expanding its disaster relief efforts in Venezuela following last week’s devastating earthquakes, preparing an Amazon Air mission to carry approximately 500,000 emergency supplies to support communities affected by the disaster.

The flight is scheduled to depart from Miami to Caracas on Friday and marks a significant expansion of the company’s response to the twin earthquakes that struck northern Venezuela.

The shipment includes diapers, sleeping bags, tarps, hygiene kits, first-aid supplies, medical equipment, generators, muck-and-gut kits, and other essential relief items. Amazon is also sending toys and coloring books to help create child-friendly spaces in emergency shelters.

The latest effort builds on Amazon’s previously announced support, which includes donations to humanitarian organizations and the use of its global logistics network to deliver emergency supplies to affected areas.

Amazon mobilizes disaster relief efforts after Venezuela earthquakes

“As the situation evolves, we remain committed to supporting our employees and the wider community affected by these devastating earthquakes,” said Bettina Stix, director of Amazon’s Community Impact.

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Amazon said it also stands ready to provide hundreds of additional technology systems at no cost to nonprofit partners, including Footprint Project and ITDRC, to help deliver internet connectivity and power solutions where needed.

Amazon said its immediate priority remains the safety of employees and partners, and it is working with humanitarian organizations to assist affected communities.

“As the situation evolves, we remain committed to supporting our employees and the wider community affected by these devastating earthquakes. We will continue to work closely with community partners and humanitarian organizations for additional support in the coming weeks. We encourage everyone to prioritize safety and follow guidance from local emergency officials,” said Bettina Stix, director of Amazon’s Community Impact.

Amazon is supporting relief efforts by donating to six nonprofit organizations: Airlink, the American Red Cross, International Medical Corps, the United Nations International Organization for Migration, World Central Kitchen, and the World Food Programme.

Since launching its disaster relief program in 2017, Amazon said it has donated and delivered more than 26 million emergency supplies in response to more than 200 disasters worldwide. The company operates Disaster Relief hubs in six countries to enable rapid responses to earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters.