West Cork man travels to Venezuela to deliver aid to earthquake-hit families

A West Cork man has literally gone a long way to bring some joy into the lives of children and families impacted by the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela last June.

Moved by the scenes that played out on our TV screens, Daniel Fitzpatrick launched a fundraising drive, to buy aid packages for those affected by the disaster.

At the start of the month, he flew out to the Venezuelan capital Caracas, where he handed out school bags and other essential items purchased through donations.

“I was just shocked at seeing everything levelled, just how many buildings collapsed,” said Mr Fitzpatrick.

“The earthquakes lasted 33 seconds in total. How such destruction could be caused in such a brief length of time is unfathomable. The Irish flag was on everything and in every donation."

Mr Fitzpatrick plans to return to Venezuela in December with new shoes, clothes, and a Christmas present for hundreds of children.

Donations to his fundraising drive can be made at gofundme.com/irelandforvenezuela.