For Venezuelans settled in Huelva, physical distance has not been an obstacle to feeling the pain and uncertainty caused by the recent catastrophe in their country. Unanswered calls, messages from relatives, and photographs of damage have kept the emotional connection to the tragedy alive.
Father Enrique Uzcategui, from the Diocese of Huelva, recounts how the community has relived feelings of sadness and helplessness. "Venezuela again, something happens to us again," has been a recurring phrase among residents, who struggle with pain from afar without being able to accompany their loved ones in person.
The catastrophe has directly affected some families in Huelva. Father Enrique Uzcategui shared the case of a young woman who lost her mother and uncle in the earthquake, and that of a family from La Guaira whose homes suffered damage, highlighting that this is not a distant news item but a close and painful reality.
Uzcategui himself also experienced the tragedy closely with the death of a friend in the collapse of a hotel in Venezuela. Despite the suffering, he emphasizes the solidarity that has emerged among Venezuelans in Huelva.
“"There is much suffering and concern, but also solidarity and support."
The Cathedral of La Merced in Huelva became a refuge and place of prayer for the community. Several masses were held for the victims, serving as a meeting point for Venezuelans, offering comfort and allowing them to share experiences.
In addition to religious services, simple gatherings were organized to highlight the pain of a community watching the difficult situation in their country from a distance.
From Huelva, NGOs and volunteers like Manuel Canelo and Father Enrique Uzcategui are providing aid to those affected. Uzcategui is currently collaborating in Venezuela with displaced families and collection centers, and plans to continue his commitment from Huelva.
Manuel Canelo traveled to Venezuela to support the Venezuelan Red Cross in technical tasks for hospital operations, strengthening the healthcare system. Since July, thousands of medical consultations and mental health and psychosocial support services have been provided.
The Provincial Council of Huelva also joined the mobilization, creating a Coordination Table and allocating 27,000 euros to emergency projects through organizations such as Bomberos Unidos sin Fronteras and Fundación SAMU.
Concern for family and friends has united Venezuelans in Huelva, who have faced losses and material damage. For them, distance never meant being indifferent to pain, and human and emotional support is considered as important as material aid.
