Overview
Economic and political challenges in Venezuela have led to the collapse of the country, resulting in massive food shortages and virtual shutdowns of public services such as health care and education.
Seeking a better life, over five million Venezuelans have fled their country, and two million have settled in neighbouring Colombia.
Years of violence have resulted in a cycle of trauma and pain for refugees, even after arriving in Colombia. The need for trauma healing continues to grow.
Quick Facts
0
M
people have fled Venezuela
0
%
of Venezuelans lost over 25 pounds
0
M%
inflation rate in 2020
Stories of Transformation
The long journey
Imagine walking from Fort McMurray, Alberta, to Vancouver, British Colombia. Now imagine doing it with two young children. Luz Helena is thankful that she and her grandchildren are safe, taking refuge in Colombia after fleeing their home in Venezuela. Although conditions aren’t ideal, the local church has welcomed them in. “They have embraced us like family.”
Elainy the pharmacist
In Venezuela, Elainy and her husband had a succesful life. But when the country collapsed, they lost everything and were forced to flee. When just about all seemed lost, the local church came and provided her hungry children with food. “I no longer have to worry about when their next meal will be. I am extremely grateful for the church running the program.”
The hope of return
Living next to a garbage dump is less than ideal, but it is far better than what their lives were turning into in Venezuela. Giselle fears for her future. But she has hope, knowing that the church is there, providing her with postnatal care and her family with daily hot meals.
Partners
