In a country that struggles every day to survive, a Christmas tradition born 12 years ago continues to provide a fleeting sense of relief to hundreds. Every year, in an effort that’s made up entirely of volunteer work, good samaritans dressed as Santa Claus and Elves roam the streets of Caracas, Venezuela.
They then proceed to hand out bags containing food, medicine, toys, and clothes to the country’s most needy. Despite the somber aspect of their streets, void of Christmas lights or decorations, children of all ages run to hug Santa Claus and a slight feeling of merriment abounds.
“I hope that they provide much of what people need in the streets,” said Joel Rodriguez, a homeless and wheelchair-bound man. “Many times they look at us from the shoulder down because we live on the streets and sometimes we have to eat from the garbage.”
Hundreds of people gathered under a huge tent, classifying products and preparing ham and cheese sandwiches to make all of this possible. Whenever a crisis occurs, 5-6 children die per week because of malnutrition in Caracas.
Caritas is a confederation with more than 160 members working in almost every country in the world. Susana Rafali, a member of the organization, revealed that due to the country’s current state, an estimated total of 280,000 malnourished children could die of hunger in the months that follow.
33% of children in Caracas have delays in their growth, as well as physical and mental damage that is irreversible. Venezuela’s crisis is not only economic but has become humanitarian as well.
This article was inspired by ABC CBN NEWS // Food, clothes for poor in not-so-merry Christmas for Venezuela