Venezuela Crisis - Improving Access to Health Services

March 2022 – The crisis in Venezuela has resulted in severe food and fuel shortages record hyperinflation and the collapse of the health system putting both food and medicine out of reach for many citizens and heavily impacting the ability of people to meet basic needs. Over 5.3 million people have fled Venezuela since 2015 many of whom are currently residing in neighboring countries such as Colombia Ecuador and Peru. As the situation continues to deteriorate in Venezuela vulnerable and crisis-affected populations are in need of critical assistance including basic health assistance food security and water sanitation and hygiene. With GAC's support this project helps address the essential health needs of up to 55 000 vulnerable people affected by the crisis specifically from communities that are difficult to access due to violence or their remote location. Project activities include: (1) providing quality primary health care for migrant populations and (2) providing mental health and psychosocial support services available in supported health centers and mobile clinics including gender-based violence services.

The expected outcomes of this project include: (1) improved and equitable access to primary health care and sexual and reproductive health services for Venezuelan migrant populations; and (2) improved access to protection services for women and girls affected by gender-based violence. The expected ultimate outcome is lives saved suffering alleviated and human dignity maintained in the targeted regions.