South Floridians continue to rally behind earthquake victims in Venezuela, donating so many supplies that some people are now being turned away at the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) in Doral because the organization has reached capacity.
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Officials say people should not be discouraged from donating. The need for supplies remains high, but the times when donations can be dropped off at GEM have changed.
Another cargo flight carrying 50 tons of humanitarian aid is scheduled to leave Miami for Caracas on Saturday. A first 50-ton flight departed earlier this week on Monday.
GEM also released new video showing donated aid reaching communities affected by the disaster.
One boy receiving assistance thanked people in the United States and other countries for their support.
Meanwhile, donations continued arriving at GEM’s Doral warehouse throughout the day.
Daniella drove from Davie to donate medical supplies she collected from the hospital where she works, including unused or expired sutures, bandages and sterile gloves. Although her family in Venezuela is safe, she said she understands the country faces a difficult recovery because of limited resources and a lack of government assistance, making outside help critical.
Another donor, Wally, also brought medical supplies. She is from Puerto Rico and said living through a natural disaster herself inspired her to help Venezuelans.
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Her 15-year-old also volunteered, saying it’s important for people to help one another during difficult times.
The effort also received support from the Miami Dolphins. The team posted video showing center Aaron Brewer and running back Ollie Gordon II volunteering at the warehouse.
Other volunteers said they waited an hour and a half before beginning their shifts over the holiday weekend.
“It’s a strong community that is supporting each other,” one volunteer said. “This is something that unifies people when we all come together for a mission.”
Another volunteer said spending a few hours helping was well worth the time after seeing the devastation in Venezuela.
Officials remind anyone planning to donate to check GEM’s updated donation hours before arriving.
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