In our think tank O-Test, we usually address analytical topics in technology, economy and society, but this occasion merits a pause in our usual activities. The recent DANA that has hit the Valencian Community hard has left entire communities affected, with displaced families, destroyed homes and a large number of people requiring urgent support. As a non-profit organization, we want to dedicate this article to offering a practical and comprehensive resource for those who wish to provide help. Below, you will find concrete and verified ways to support those affected by this crisis.
1. Supply Donations at Collection Centers: What to Donate and Where to Take It
Collection centers in various locations are receiving donations of specific items. Below are some locations and the type of items they are in need of.
Torrent: Donations are being received at the Torrent Social Services Center. The most requested items are:
Non-perishable foods (rice, pasta, canned goods)
Bottled water
Personal hygiene products (soap, toothpaste, diapers, wet wipes)
Clothing in good condition (especially warm clothing and footwear)
Contact: You can call +34 963 837 100 to coordinate donations or resolve queries.
Riba-roja de Túria: This municipality has established collection points in its Town Hall and community assistance centers. Specific needs include:
Blankets and sheets
Cleaning products (bleach, detergent)
Basic first aid medications (band-aids, painkillers)
Contact: Visit the Riba-roja de Túria Town Hall or call +34 961 658 100 for more information on donation times and requirements.
Valencia City (Centro Vecinal de Nazaret): In collaboration with local NGOs, collection points have been opened for:
Clothing for all ages in good condition
Personal hygiene products and diapers
Toys and books for affected children
Contact: Donations can be coordinated through the Centro Vecinal de Nazaret at +34 963 676 123.
Tip for Donors: Before bringing the products, call to confirm that these items are needed, since the list can change as donations are received and basic needs are covered.
2. Volunteering on the Ground: How and Where to Sign Up
Volunteering is an invaluable way to help in this crisis. Many organizations have organized groups to carry out clean-up, reconstruction and logistical support in affected areas.
Valencia Red Cross: Red Cross needs volunteers for clean-up tasks and organization of donations. Volunteer days require prior registration and instructions are given on the necessary materials.
Registration: Visit the Valencia Red Cross website or call +34 900 221 122 to register as a volunteer. Short training sessions are held before each day for those who register for the first time.
Civil Protection of the Valencian Community: This organization is receiving volunteers for rescue, evacuation and cleaning work in hard-to-reach areas. It is important to have experience in emergencies, although they also accept helpers for other tasks.
Contact: Go to the Civil Protection website or call +34 963 445 556 for more details on registration and meeting points for each day.
Animal Shelters: Animal protection associations in Valencia are asking for volunteers to help clean and care for animals displaced by the floods. Tasks include everything from feeding to cleaning temporary facilities.
Valencia Animal Protection Society (SPAV): You can contact them at +34 963 235 402 or visit their headquarters. Prior coordination is required, as specific shifts are assigned each day to optimize the care of the animals.
Advice for Volunteers: Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for difficult working conditions. Bring personal hygiene products such as disinfectant and gloves for your protection.
3. Temporary Shelter and Donation for Displaced Animals
In addition to temporary shelters, several organizations are looking for foster homes for displaced animals and need donations of specific products for their care.
Society for the Protection of Animals of Valencia (SPAV): In addition to volunteers, they are looking for families who can temporarily take in animals, especially dogs and cats.
Contact: For more information about the fostering process, call +34 963 235 402 or visit their website to fill out the fostering form.
Santuario Espíritu Libre: This organization is dedicated to the protection of animals and has launched a call for donations of food, veterinary medicines, blankets and beds for animals.
Support: Direct donations can be made through their website, which details the needs for products and explains the foster care process.
Fostering Tip: Make sure you have the space and time necessary to care for an animal in this situation, and check with the shelter to see if they require any special care or specific food.
4. Financial Donations to Organizations on the Ground
Financial contributions allow organizations to cover immediate needs and adapt to changes in the situation. Some organizations you can donate to are:
Spanish Red Cross (DANA Valencia Campaign): On their official Red Cross website you can make a donation for people affected by DANA.
Donation Options: You can donate through bank transfer, credit card, or PayPal at the Red Cross. Telephone contact for questions: +34 900 221 122.
Cáritas Valencia: Cáritas has set up a specific fund for victims, to which you can contribute through a recurring or one-time donation.
Donation Method: Go to Cáritas or call +34 963 155 310 to make a donation and find out more about how the funds are distributed.
Advice for Donors: Consider activating a recurring donation to ensure long-term help during the recovery period.
5. Blood Donation in Valencia Hospitals
The DANA has generated an additional demand for blood in hospitals, since many people are being treated for serious injuries and other medical problems.
Valencia University Clinical Hospital: This center holds specific donation days to care for those injured by the DANA.
Contact: Call +34 963 862 662 to find out about donation requirements and times.
Valencian Community Blood Transfusion Center: They organize donation days in multiple locations in the region.
Requirements: Visit the official website of the Blood Transfusion Center to confirm your ability to donate and find out the available times.
Tip: It is essential to show up with an identification document and not have consumed fatty foods in the last few hours, to optimize the quality of the donated blood.
6. Psychological Care for Affected People
The emotional impact of DANA is considerable and mental health organizations are looking for volunteers who can provide psychological support to those affected.
Official College of Psychologists of Valencia: This college is coordinating a network of professionals who want to offer free or reduced consultations to affected people.
Registration for Volunteer Psychologists: Professionals can register on the platform of the Official College of Psychologists of Valencia or call +34 963 944 222.
Valencian Association of Psychological Aid (AVAP): This association organizes support groups for affected families and individual sessions for those who need it.
Contact: Call +34 963 111 356 or visit the official website for more details.
Advice for Volunteers: It is recommended to have experience in crisis and trauma work. The AVAP offers a basic guide for those who wish to support in this process.
Conclusion
From O-Test, we call on the entire community to join forces to help Valencia in these times of need. Every small action can make a difference, be it a donation, a day of volunteering or simply the dissemination of reliable information. The situation is serious, but together we can make recovery faster and less painful for all those affected.
Final Note: It is essential to verify the information with each organization before acting to ensure that aid is channeled appropriately and according to the real needs of the moment.
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