Floods Devastate Valencia in 2024: A Community Rises in Crisis with the Support of Volunteer Ministers and International Rescuers
Valencia, Spain – Scientology Volunteer Ministers (VMs) have coordinate over 3000 hours of volunteer work so far Valencia and the applications of volunteers keep growing, while still much more is needed. VMs in Valencia are cleaning streets, houses, garages, delivering food, clothes, and tools, all thanks to the solidarity of the Scientology network in Spain, joined by friends and relatives, and the generous support of the International Association of Scientologists, thanks to whom more volunteers are arriving to contribute in the rescue and rebuilding of “normal life” as much as possible.
On October 29, 2024, Spain faced a catastrophic hydrological disaster as a cold drop, or DANA, unleashed torrential rains across the region, particularly devastating upto 65 villages of the province of Valencia and surroundings. This isolated high-level depression, classified as a “mesoscale convective system”, resulted in staggering rainfall totals, with some areas recording over 600 liters per square meter. The AVAMET observatory in Turís (Valencia) registered a staggering 640.8 l/m², while Chiva logged 600.2 l/m², leading to the overflow of rivers and ravines along the Mediterranean coast. The aftermath has been tragic; at least 217 lives have been lost—211 in Valencia, along with casualties in Castilla-La Mancha and Andalusia—while the material damage is expected to be extensive. This event ranks among the worst hydrological disasters in Spain's history, reminiscent of previous calamitous events such as those in Vallés and Biescas..
But as the waters raised and the challenges mounted, so too did a profound show of humanity and resilience with thousands and thousands of volunteers. Among the frontline responders that include Red Cross, Caritas, Civil Protection and others, are the Scientology Volunteer Ministers, whose vibrant yellow shirts have become synonymous with hope and support in disaster-stricken areas around the world. These volunteers have mobilized tirelessly, offering essential assistance, logistical support, and emotional solace to those whose lives have been upended.
In the face of crisis, the courage of the human spirit becomes a powerful force—and in Valencia (SPAIN), that spirit is shared and strengthened through community efforts, international aid, and dedicated volunteerism.
While the very capital seems to be physically untouched by the disaster, residential areas and businesses of circa 65 villages of the province are now unrecognizable, buried under the murky waters that continue to hinder the passing of people and cars. Media reports estimates of over 200 people dead, and thousands disappeared, and thousands more that have been forced to evacuate, many of who are now living in precarious conditions as emergency shelters reach capacity and many new improvised shelters appear thanks to the goodwill of neighboring cities and villages.
For many, the journey to safety has been fraught with obstacles. Families have been separated, elderly residents are stranded, and with roads heavily hindered, some have had no choice but to start pulling out the waters themselves from the garages and underground rooms. Yet, amid these scenes of despair, a concerted effort by local authorities, humanitarian groups, improvised volunteers and Scientology Volunteers Ministers has given the city a glimmer of hope.
The Volunteer Ministers program, an outreach initiative by the Church of Scientology, was established in the early 1970s by Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard. Designed to provide humanitarian relief in areas of crisis, the Volunteer Ministers have served as a bridge of help and solace for decades. Their motto, as established by Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard is "Something can be done about it," and it captures the very essence of their mission: a belief that in the face of adversity, proactive assistance can always offer a path forward.
These yellow-shirted volunteers have been present in some of the most challenging disaster scenarios worldwide, from Hurricane Katrina, earthquakes in Haiti, the 2011 Fukushima disaster, and many others, including Turkey, Morroco, Italy, Czeck Republic and many others. Equipped with both specialized training in emergency response and a compassionate ethos, the VMs have gained a reputation as dependable responders. They work in collaboration with other humanitarian groups, adapting their efforts to fit the particular needs of each crisis.
In Valencia, the VMs have been among the first to respond, coordinating their efforts with Civil Protection, local emergency services, and have provided the needed shelter and support to the internationally known Mexican rescue team of “Los Topos.” Their contributions range from distributing essential supplies—food, water, blankets, boots, clothers, heavy machinery and even toys—to providing emotional support for those grappling with the loss of homes, livelihoods, and a sense of security.
Alongside the Scientology Volunteer Ministers, the arrival of "Los Topos" (the Moles), an elite Mexican rescue team, has bolstered relief efforts. Known for their exceptional skills in urban search and rescue, especially under collapsed buildings and rubble, Los Topos have coordinated with the VMs, regional authorities and rescue workers, to maximize the reach of their support. In Valencia, their expertise gives invaluable hope, especially in evacuating residents trapped in partially submerged structures or reaching isolated communities.
The bond between the Volunteer Ministers and Los Topos dates back years, and their shared history of disaster response has allowed them to develop a seamless working relationship. Los Topos, named for their ability to “tunnel” through debris and difficult terrain, are widely recognized for their bravery and commitment in some of the world’s most daunting rescue scenarios. In Valencia, their arrival has brought a renewed sense of hope for those still waiting to be rescued, as well as for families anxiously awaiting news of loved ones.
In the flood-ravaged neighborhoods, survivors speak of the warmth and dedication shown by the Volunteer Ministers.
The VMs have set up coordination hub and storage place plus a relief station to receive and distributed donated materials. They are also helping coordinate spaces for those affected to rest, receive supplies, and find comfort, as well as helping improvised volunteers from around the country and the world, so that they have spaces to sleep. VMs are providing information and networking for families to learn about their options, find temporary shelter, and meet volunteers who lend a compassionate ear. Many are deeply moved by the genuine care and support they receive from the Volunteer Ministers.
"These people gave me hope when I thought there was none left," shared one of the victims of the flooding. "They didn’t just hand me a blanket and food—they stayed and listened to me. It made all the difference."
The strength of Valencia’s response lies in its people—the local residents and international allies who stand side by side in the face of immense hardship. The Volunteer Ministers and Los Topos exemplify the powerful synergy that can emerge when individuals, communities, and humanitarian groups work together. The volunteers come from diverse backgrounds but share a common purpose: to be there for others, regardless of circumstance.
While Valencia’s road to recovery will be a long one, the support pouring in from all corners of the world is a reminder of our collective humanity. And as the city confronts the daunting task of rebuilding, it does so with the knowledge that it is not alone.
As mud and water slowly recede, the focus shifts from rescue to rebuilding. The Volunteer Ministers have pledged to stay in Valencia for as long as they are needed, committing not only to immediate disaster relief but also to long-term recovery efforts. Their presence will be instrumental as residents return to salvage their homes and attempt to rebuild their lives.
For now, in the midst of uncertainty, there is hope. It’s a hope carried by each volunteer who extends a hand, each rescuer who pulls someone from danger, and each community member who remains steadfast. The people of Valencia are not facing this disaster alone—they are bolstered by a global network of compassion, resilience, and unwavering support.
Organization: European Office Church of Scientology for Public Affairs and Human Rights
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