Venezuelan actress Catherine Fulop teamed up with chef Ángel Lozada and influencer Víctor 'El Gordo Cocina' for a massive solidarity event in Palermo, Buenos Aires. They sold over 400 arepas and collected nearly 7 million Argentine pesos to help families affected by the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela in June 2026.

A Heartfelt 'Arepazo' in the Heart of Buenos Aires

On Sunday, August 9, 2026, the beloved Venezuelan actress and TV host Catherine Fulop rolled up her sleeves and served arepas—traditional Venezuelan corn cakes—at the Chacaito restaurant (Charcas 4402, Palermo, a trendy neighborhood in Buenos Aires). The event, dubbed "Arepazo Solidario", drew hundreds of locals and expats eager to support the victims of the powerful earthquakes that shattered parts of Venezuela in late June.

Fulop was joined by Víctor "El Gordo Cocina", a popular food content creator, and chef Ángel Lozada. Together, they took orders, grilled arepas, and served classic fillings like reina pepiada (chicken and avocado), pelúa (shredded beef and cheese), and dominó (black beans and cheese), accompanied by papelón con limón (a sugarcane and lemon drink) and traditional desserts.

A Generous Outcome

The initiative exceeded all expectations: more than 400 arepas were sold, and the final collection reached nearly 7 million Argentine pesos (ARS)—roughly equivalent to USD 5,000 at the time, though the exact exchange rate varies. All proceeds went to the NGO Cocinando por Venezuela (Cooking for Venezuela), which prepares and distributes up to 3,000 hot meals daily in Caracas and other affected areas.

Fulop shared an emotional message on social media: "When a tragedy stops being news, it doesn't mean it's over. Weeks have passed since the earthquakes, but thousands of families still live in shelters and camps, waiting for a helping hand." Her words resonated with the crowd, who turned out in force to show solidarity.

The Disaster Behind the Cause

On June 24, 2026, two earthquakes of magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 struck near Caracas, causing widespread destruction and leaving thousands homeless. Many families are still living in temporary camps, lacking basic necessities.

Music and Community Spirit

The event, organized by journalists Adairé Hernández and Jolymar Hernández, also featured live music from DJ Funky ED, Tang Negro, and Qué Tal Robs, turning the Palermo street into a vibrant celebration of Venezuelan culture and resilience.