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PASADENA, Calif. () — A Pasadena restaurant owner is mobilizing local support for those affected by the deadly back-to-back earthquakes in Venezuela.
On Colorado Boulevard, a sign outside Chamo Venezuelan Cuisine reads, “Venezuela needs us, please help.”
The restaurant is owned by Yesika Baker, who has been in constant contact with loved ones in the quake-stricken country.
“Well it’s been like … no sleeping,” Baker said.
She said she has spent sleepless nights checking on her family members. Baker added that two of her employees have relatives now without homes.
“Their family cannot go back to the buildings, so they’re sleeping on the floor…” she said.
She also recalled a customer who told her that eight members of their family remain missing.
Some two dozen countries so far have sent aid to Venezuela in the aftermath of the earthquakes, according to the country’s acting president.
“We have received support from 24 countries in the international community, which have sent 521 tons of supplies, 86 canine units, and more than 2,741 members of search, rescue, and support personnel, who are already integrated with our teams,” Acting President Delcy Rodríguez posted on X Saturday night.
At least 1,430 people were killed and more than 3,200 were injured.
“It’s very tough to be strong,” Baker said.
Baker said the restaurant canceled a planned World Cup event but was moved by a moment of silence observed by fans and players in honor of the victims.
“I was like wow, that touched me,” she said.
The restaurant is now collecting donations to send to Venezuela. Community members are encouraged to drop off shelf-stable food, toiletries, sleeping bags, blankets, gloves, masks and first-aid supplies.
Donations will be accepted at the restaurant through Tuesday at noon.
As the crisis continues abroad, Baker said even small contributions locally can make a difference.
News contributed to this report.
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