My name is Sofia Aldridge, and I live in Minneapolis, Minnesota. I was born and raised in the United States, but my family ties to Venezuela have always been a major part of my life.

My mother is from Venezuela, and many of my happiest childhood memories were made there with my grandparents and extended family. One memory I will always treasure is celebrating my quinceañera surrounded by my family in Venezuela. It was one of the last times I was able to visit before the country’s humanitarian crisis made returning so difficult. Those memories—and the people I love who still call Venezuela home—are why this fundraiser means so much to me.

On June 24, Venezuela was struck by two devastating earthquakes that forever changed the lives of thousands of people. Families lost loved ones, homes were destroyed, entire communities were reduced to rubble, and rescue teams continue searching for survivors and beloved pets. Every day since, I’ve watched videos and spoken with family members as they describe the destruction. It is heartbreaking to be so far away while the people you love are living through something so devastating.

This tragedy has deeply affected my own family. My cousin Aaron lost one of his closest friends in the earthquakes, and our family has been grieving alongside so many others while also trying to help however we can.

I knew I couldn’t simply watch from thousands of miles away without doing something.

That is why I created this fundraiser to support the I LOVE VENEZUELA FOUNDATION, INC., a registered nonprofit organization providing humanitarian assistance to those affected by the earthquakes.

Every dollar raised through this GoFundMe will be donated directly to the I LOVE VENEZUELA FOUNDATION, INC. The foundation will use the funds to purchase and distribute emergency relief supplies for families affected by the earthquakes, including:

Venezuela was already facing significant humanitarian challenges before the earthquakes. This disaster has only intensified the need for immediate assistance, making organizations like the I LOVE VENEZUELA FOUNDATION, INC. more important than ever.

I want to be completely transparent: I am not raising money for myself or for any member of my family. I am raising funds only to support the I LOVE VENEZUELA FOUNDATION, INC., and every donation made through this fundraiser will go directly to that organization to help provide relief to those who need it most.

If you are able to donate, thank you from the bottom of my heart. If you are unable to give, simply sharing this fundraiser can help it reach someone who can. Every donation, every share, and every act of kindness brings hope to families who have lost so much.

Venezuela has given me cherished memories, lifelong family, and a piece of my identity that I will always carry with me. Now, I hope to give something back.

Thank you for standing with the people of Venezuela during one of the most difficult moments in their lives. Your compassion and generosity mean more than words can express♥️