On June 24, two earthquakes of magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 struck northern Venezuela. More than 5,000 people lost their lives, and many others may still be under the rubble. Thousands of families are homeless and living in emergency shelters.
Many children and adolescents have had their daily routines disrupted and are now facing changes in their family and community lives, insecurity, and the emotional impacts caused by the emergency. To welcome them and help them rediscover spaces of care, learning, and social interaction, World Missions has established Tenda de Brincar (“Play Tent”) units in the country.
The initiative is being carried out by the PEPE VAI Emergency Team in Venezuela, composed of coordinators, PEPE educational missionaries, professionals, and volunteers, in partnership with the Venezuelan Baptist Convention and local churches.
PEPE already carries out ongoing work in the country, with 110 units and 2,142 children regularly enrolled. Through PEPE VAI — Child Support Visits — local churches are also present in the lives of children and their families, strengthening bonds and helping them feel safe both at PEPE and at home. Now, in response to this emergency, this care network has also been mobilized to reach children affected by the earthquakes.
The Tenda de Brincar methodology transforms tents into safe and welcoming spaces where children and adolescents can once again play, learn, express their emotions, and build new bonds. Activities are organized by age group and take place at different stations:
- educational games;
- storytelling;
- conversation;
- movement activities;
- art;
- sports;
- music and dance;
- psychosocial support.
This care also includes providing a nutritious meal prepared with enriched flour as a dietary supplement, as well as initiatives to promote health and hygiene. While the children participate in the activities, parents and caregivers receive guidance on child protection, strengthening the capacity of families and communities to care for and protect children.
During one of the first days of the initiative, a little girl approached the team and shared that she was afraid. She was welcomed and reassured that God was with her and that the volunteers would also remain by her side. Shortly afterward, she smiled and went back to playing with the other children. Moments like this show that, in a context marked by so much uncertainty, offering safety, presence, and affection is also a way of helping to restore hope.
Currently, 265 children are enrolled in the PEPE VAI Emergency Program. New emergency units are being established to expand services to more Venezuelan children and families.
Implementing this initiative also involves challenges. The team faces difficulties related to transporting volunteers, supplies, and meals, as well as an ongoing need for educational and recreational materials, food supplies, and hygiene products. Even so, the support of local churches and the willingness of volunteers have allowed the work to continue.
PRAY:
- for the children and adolescents served by Tenda de Brincar;
- that they may find safety, comfort, and hope during this very difficult time;
- for those who have lost family members, that God may comfort their hearts;
- for the PEPE VAI Emergency Team;
- for Venezuelan churches and all the volunteers who have been serving in this mission.
To follow the work being carried out in Venezuela, follow PEPE on social media:
Instagram: @pepe.global
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61587945218597
