For years, tensions have simmered in Venezuela, forcing millions of people from their homes. Families leave to escape the violence and insecurity. They leave because it’s hard to even access basics like food and medicine.
More than 4 million Venezuelans have fled their home country. According to UNHCR, this is the largest migratory flow ever recorded in Latin America. Colombia has received the highest number of Venezuelan migrants overburdening an already strained health care system. The influx of migrants isn’t likely to decrease in the near future. Today, more than 1.4 million people in Colombia — both Venezuelan migrants and vulnerable local families — need immediate health assistance.
Medical Teams Response
We are responding in a coastal region of Colombia with limited health care and an influx of Venezuelan migrants. Your support will help train Venezuelan migrants as health workers. This program will provide crucial support to the local health system.
Volunteer health workers will be trained to reach out to their neighbors and promote healthy behaviors. After attending health education sessions, they’ll return to their neighborhoods to share what they’ve learned, creating a multiplying effect that benefits the whole community. They will monitor high-risk people, like pregnant women, children and the elderly. Volunteers will also provide referrals to subsidized care.
