Read for Venezuela: How We're Giving Back
- Nicolette Alexandra Brito-Cruz
- Aug 2
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 9
As a Venezuelan living in the United States, it's been heartbreaking to watch the devastation unfold from afar. Like so many in the Venezuelan diaspora, I've spent the past several weeks checking in with family, reading updates, and trying to find ways to support the people and places I love. The road to recovery will be long, and for many families, including my own, it will come with challenges that won't disappear overnight.
At the same time, I've also witnessed something incredibly hopeful. People from across Venezuela and around the world have come together to volunteer, organize relief efforts, raise funds, and support the communities most affected. Seeing that solidarity has been a reminder that even in difficult moments, community has the power to carry us forward.
Many of you have reached out to ask how you can help. First, thank you. Every message checking in on me and my family has meant more than I can express.
One of the most impactful ways to support recovery efforts is by donating to verified organizations with trusted connections on the ground. If you're looking for ways to help, here are a few organizations and initiatives doing important work:
Techo - Supporting emergency response and long-term recovery efforts throughout Venezuela.
Cáritas Venezuela - Providing humanitarian assistance, emergency relief, and aid to vulnerable communities.
I Love Venezuela Foundation - Raising funds to directly support earthquake relief efforts.
Impaktemos - Supporting communities affected by the earthquakes through grassroots relief initiatives.
As a bookstore, we often talk about the power of stories to connect us. But community extends beyond the pages of a book. It means showing up for one another when it matters most.
That's why Xolo Books will be donating a portion of every book sale to Venezuela earthquake relief and recovery efforts moving forward. Every purchase made through our shop helps support organizations working directly with affected communities. If you were already planning on picking up your next read, know that your purchase will also help contribute to recovery efforts.
If you'd like to learn more, the hosts of the Venezuelan podcast El Cuartico recently visited some of the affected areas and shared thoughtful recommendations for ways to help. The video is in Spanish, but it's an excellent resource for anyone looking to better understand what's happening on the ground.
To everyone who has reached out with kind words, shared resources, or simply held Venezuela in your thoughts, gracias. Your compassion has been a source of comfort during an incredibly difficult time, and I'm so grateful to be part of a community that continues to show up for one another.
Thank you for reading, for supporting independent bookstores, and for helping us stand with Venezuela.
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