Medications and supplies shipped this month included vitamins, personal protective equipment, personal hygiene essentials, and more.

Ultrasounds, Essential Care Included Midwifery Training in Yemen

In an effort to build resilience and foster sustainable healthcare solutions in Yemen, local NGO MedGlobal, supported by Direct Relief, recently conducted a training program aimed at strengthening healthcare systems and empowering local healthcare providers in Yemen to deliver life-saving care in resource-limited settings.

Hosted at MedGlobal’s newly established training center at Al-Tawahi Health Facility in Aden, Yemen, the training involved 30 midwives and doctors who gained advanced skills to overcome the challenges of providing maternal and newborn care in underserved areas.

Providers took part in several courses, including training on point-of-care ultrasounds, and essential care for more mothers and newborns.

Expanding Substance Abuse Treatment in Puerto Rico

Recently, Direct Relief participated in the inauguration of a medication-assisted treatment clinic of the health center, SANOS, located in Caguas, Puerto Rico. The new building provides integrated physical and mental healthcare services as well as buprenorphine treatment for patients recovering from substance abuse.

In 2021, SANOS received a $765,000 grant from Direct Relief to expand clinic space that would house the medication-assisted treatment clinic. Since 2018, Direct Relief has awarded $1,096,400 in grant funding to SANOS, including funds for a medical mobile unit, telehealth efforts, equipment for a women’s clinic, and support of donated medications.

The clinic will provide integrated services for people in recovery with a multidisciplinary team, and the SANOS space will soon house a dental clinic for patients as well. SANOS incorporated a multipurpose room that will serve as a community hub and shelter during emergencies.

Operational Snapshot

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 1,800 shipments containing 5.6M doses of medication during the past month to organizations, including the following:

Around the World

Globally, Direct Relief shipped over 18.5M defined daily doses of medication totaling 411,724 lbs., to countries including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 22.6K shipments to 2,375 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 88 countries. These shipments contained 376.1M defined daily doses of medication valued at $1.5B (wholesale) and totaled 4.8M lbs.

in the news

Civil Dialogues – Philanthropy in the 21st Century, with Thomas Tighe – Pacific Coast Business Times

A New Generation of Doctors Looks to Health Centers for Residency – Community Health Forum

The post In Yemen, Midwives Learn New Skills to Support Women and Babies appeared first on Direct Relief.

Medical aid delivered this week included antibiotics, personal protective equipment, and cancer treatments.

Strengthening Solar Energy Capacity in Africa

This week, with funding from Direct Relief, Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Health commissioned a solar power installation to support the energy needs of the Bo Government Hospital. The installation will provide reliable power for 70% of the hospital’s energy intake. The energy will ensure medical oxygen is readily available for patients 24/7.

This initiative is part of the Society of Critical Care Medicine’s (SCCM) Africa Infrastructure Relief and Support (AIRS) project, which was first started in 2023 to bring lifesaving oxygen to hospitals in The Gambia, Liberia, and Sierra Leone.

The SCCM AIRS project received a $5.5 million grant from Direct Relief.

Learn more about the SCCM AIRS project here.

Supporting Community Health Centers in the U.S.

Last week, Direct Relief attended the National Association of Community Health Centers’ annual Community Health Institute and Expo in Atlanta, Georgia. The community health centers provide affordable, comprehensive healthcare (often including medical, dental, behavioral health) and support services, to the country’s most vulnerable populations. Direct Relief provides ongoing support to these clinics for patient care, including during times of disaster.

Direct Relief was also recognized by NACHC as a ‘Partner of Choice’ and Direct Relief’s Chief Operating Office Dr. Byron C. Scott spoke on a general session panel with HLTH, Instacart Health, and AltaMed Health Services, a community health center in Los Angeles, California.

The panel, titled ‘Beyond the Medical Exam Room/Social Determinants of Health,’ invited the speakers to detail how their organizations are addressing healthcare gaps through technology, healthy food access, patient education on policy impacts, and providing access to medications that many patients, served by health centers, cannot afford.

Operational Snapshot

WORLDWIDE

Over the last week, Direct Relief shipped 317,544 defined daily doses of medication to countries outside the U.S. that include the following:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 313 shipments containing 189,554 doses of medication during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 16,600 shipments to 2,108 partner organizations in all 54 U.S. states, four U.S. territories, and 85 countries.

These shipments contained 309.3 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $1 billion (wholesale) and totaled 3.8 million pounds.

In THE NEWS

• Emergent’s Smallpox Vaccine Picks Up FDA Nod for Mpox as Africa Outbreak Spreads – FiercePharma
• ICN Partners with Humanitarian Aid Distribution Experts Direct Relief to Maximize the Efficient Delivery of Disaster Relief Supplies – ICN News
• OECS Commission & Direct Relief Announce Partnership Agreement to Enhance Climate Health Resilience in OECS Member States – ReliefWeb
• In a Wealthy County, Uninsured Patients Struggle with Grief and Trauma — This Therapist Helps Them Heal – Angels In Medicine
• CA Program Combats Shortage of Medical Assistants – Public News Service

The post Supporting Resilient Energy and Oxygen in Africa appeared first on Direct Relief.

Direct Relief responds

Direct Relief is monitoring this system closely and has already reached out to partners across the region, including Ministries of Health, the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), and most partners in Puerto Rico, including the Puerto Rico Department of Health and all Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs).

Direct Relief has pre-positioned Hurricane Preparedness Packs (HPPs) throughout this region of the Caribbean, including one in St. Lucia administered by OECS and ready to be deployed to any of their member states in the eastern Caribbean; one in the British Virgin Islands; and two in Puerto Rico (on the islands of Vieques and Culebra). Each U.S. version of the pack contains 220 types of medicine and medical supplies, designed to support care for 100 people for 72 hours.

After Hurricane María in 2017, Direct Relief established a regional disaster response hub with warehouse capabilities in Puerto Rico, where relief supplies are kept in stock and emergency response personnel are ready for immediate dispatch during emergencies.

The organization has also donated more than 60 mobile medical units and off-road vehicles to FQHCs and other community organizations across Puerto Rico, mobilizing health outreach services to remote communities and expanding access to care.

Since 2017, Direct Relief has been equipping health centers and non-PRASA communities (those not served by the main aqueduct authority) with solar panels and battery storage for uninterrupted access to healthcare and water.

Direct Relief will continue to monitor the storm and respond as requested.

The post Tropical Storm Ernesto Threatens the Caribbean appeared first on Direct Relief.

These shipments contained 14.7 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including prenatal vitamins, field medic packs, personal protective equipment (PPE), and more.

Direct Relief Responding to Hurricane beryl

Initial reports indicate that Hurricane Beryl resulted in at least 29 fatalities: 11 in Grenada and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, two in Jamaica, and 16 across Texas, Louisiana, and Vermont, according to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the Jamaica Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), and media reports. The storm also inflicted severe damage to critical infrastructure, including homes, healthcare facilities, and water systems; disrupted communications, power, and other essential services; and had a devastating impact on livelihoods, as reported by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).

Over the past week, Direct Relief has continued delivering shipments to storm-affected regions, including Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada. These shipments included medicine and supplies to combat dengue fever, such as mosquito repellent, oral rehydration salts, acetaminophen for adults and children, and thermometers, as well as other requested items.

Additionally, Direct Relief is sending a large-capacity power generator to Spring Branch Community Health Center in Cypress, Texas, to help maintain power at their clinic following storm-related outages. The donated generator will ensure reliable power during future emergencies and subsequent power outages.

Philippine Disaster Relief Foundation Visits Direct Relief

On July 16, 2024, representatives from the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF) visited Direct Relief’s headquarters in Santa Barbara, California. The purpose of the visit was to meet with Direct Relief’s leadership and sign a memorandum of intent focused on streamlining disaster response efforts in the region.

PDRF and Direct Relief actively collaborate on strengthening disaster resilience in the Philippines. Their joint efforts encompass a wide range of activities, including disaster prevention, mitigation, emergency preparedness, response, and recovery.

Ukraine Relief

This week, Direct Relief’s shipments of medical aid and personal care items arrived in Ukraine with the local organization Ukrainian Soul. These vital supplies were then distributed to communities across the country, including Nikopol, a city on the banks of the Dnipro River facing limited resources due to the ongoing war.

Additionally, Ukrainian Soul delivered urgently needed medications from Direct Relief to hospitals in Kremenchuk and Tomakivk, ensuring access to antibiotics, surgical supplies, and treatments for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other critical conditions.

Operational Snapshot

WORLDWIDE

Over the last week, Direct Relief shipped more than 12.9 million defined daily doses of medication to countries outside the U.S. that include the following:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 465 shipments containing over 5 tons of medications during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 13,600 shipments to 2,001 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 80 countries.

These shipments contained 244.9 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $858.9 million (wholesale) and totaling over 3.3 million pounds.

The post Humanitarian Aid Reaches 9 Countries, 48 US States — From Ukraine to the Caribbean to Texas appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 15 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including vitamins, surgical supplies, personal protective equipment, and more.

Oregon Wildfire Response

On Tuesday, the Darlene 3 wildfire prompted the evacuation of over 1,100 homes in La Pine, Oregon. Wind has driven the fire to expand to nearly 4,000 acres, and it was 30% contained as of Thursday morning, according to Central Oregon Fire Information. Direct Relief has extended its support to partner health facilities in the area, including La Pine Community Health Center and Volunteers in Medicine Clinic of the Cascades, both located within 50 miles of the fire.

The organization will continue to respond to needs as requested.

Ukraine Relief

Last week, a local NGO, Ukrainian Soul, received multiple shipments of requested medications and medical supplies for distribution to healthcare providers and first responders on the ground in Ukraine. The donations included thermometers, thyroid medications, prenatal vitamins, and more.

Direct Relief has deployed more than 2,480 tons of medical aid, 341.6 million defined daily doses, $42 million in financial assistance, and $1.3 billion in material aid assistance to Ukraine since the war broke out.

Operational Snapshot

WORLDWIDE

Over the last week, Direct Relief shipped more than 7.8 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

A recent grant recipient of Direct Relief’s Power for Health Initiative, Alliance Medical Center, located in Healdsburg, California, was recently featured by AP News. For the past month of June, the health center has been operating with a solar and battery storage system donated by Direct Relief. Direct Relief’s Power for Health Initiative seeks to bring clean, renewable backup power to community health centers and free clinics to ensure they can deliver critical healthcare services during power outages. Learn more about Direct Relief’s resilient power efforts here.

Direct Relief delivered 822 shipments containing over eight tons of medications during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 11,900 shipments to 1,894 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 78 countries.

These shipments contained 221.9 million defined daily doses of medication totaling 3.1 million lbs.

The post Oregon Wildfire Response, Support for Ukraine Continues appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 22.4 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including trauma care supplies, vitamins, pain management medications, and more.

Puerto Rico Community Health

In collaboration with Puerto Rico NGO, La Fondita de Jesús, Direct Relief has participated in multiple community health fairs this past month. An event supported by local nonprofit organization, Techos Pa’ Mi Gente, received almost 400 attendees.

Participants received personal care kits and solar-powered lights in preparation for the current hurricane season. La Fondita de Jesús provided primary healthcare services, groceries, and counseling on substance abuse. Dr. PJ Vázquez visited bedridden patients in their houses.

Monitoring Florida Storms

Storms in south Florida have caused severe flooding, road closures, power outages, and flash flood warnings. Record rainfall has exceeded 18 inches in less than 24 hours in some areas. The governor of Florida has declared a state of emergency in five counties.

Direct Relief has offered emergency assistance to health centers and clinics in Broward, Collier, Lee, Miami-Dade, and Sarasota Counties and has been in touch with national and state primary care associations. The organization will continue to monitor the situation and respond as requested.

Power for Health

This week, Direct Relief staff visited multiple healthcare centers and clinics in Northern California that received donated solar panels and battery storage systems as part of Direct Relief’s Power for Health Initiative. As of this week, one of the recipients, Alliance Medical Center, has been operating using Direct Relief’s donated systems for a full month. The clinic, which serves 13,000 patients per year, previously lost power after the 2017 Tubbs Fire. These donated systems with ensure that critical health care can continue to be provided regardless of future wildfires and subsequent power outages.

Operational Snapshot

WORLDWIDE

Over the last week, Direct Relief shipped more than 17.4 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 377 shipments containing almost eight tons of medications during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 10,500 shipments to 1,783 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 74 countries.

These shipments contained 204 million defined daily doses of medication totaling 3 million lbs.

IN THE NEWS

• Community health centers’ new crisis: The need for backup power – AP News
• Powering up: Santa Barbara based non-profit helping to prevent power blackouts at community clinics – KCLU

The post Responding to Florida Flooding, Strengthening Community Health in Puerto Rico, Resilient U.S. Power appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 7 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including cancer treatments, diabetes medications, trauma care essentials, and more.

Increasing Access to Cancer Treatment in Mongolia

A significant oncology drug donation by Direct Relief arrived in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia this month, marking the organization’s first-ever direct donation to a healthcare provider partner in the country. Ulaanbaatar, the nation’s capital, is home to 1.7 million people.

This donation was facilitated alongside Direct Relief partner organization, the Onom Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing healthcare, research, and democracy building in Mongolia. The medication has been distributed to two medical complexes in Ulaanbaatar providing care to cancer patients, The First National Hospital, and the Maternal and Children’s Hospital.

Mongolia has the world’s highest rate of cancer mortality per capita, and more than one in five deaths in Mongolia is caused by cancer, mainly of liver and stomach, according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer. The agency also reported that Mongolia has the highest incident rate of liver cancer in the world, with an age-standardized rate per 100,000 patients of 78.1, while 75% of all liver cancer cases occur in Asia. Additionally, according to the National Institutes of Health, almost three-quarters of cancers in Mongolia are diagnosed at a late stage, resulting in a low survival rate and a high fatality rate.

Field Medic Packs Depart for Brazil After Floods

This week, 100 field medic packs departed Direct Relief’s Santa Barbara warehouse requested by the Pan American Health Organization for healthcare providers responding to the devastating flood that impacted Brazil in May. These packs include supplies and equipment to meet a variety of prevalent disaster-related medical issues, including infection control, diagnostics, trauma care, and personal protection tools.

Operational Snapshot

WORLDWIDE

Over the last week, Direct Relief shipped more than 4 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief recently donated two pharmaceutical-grade refrigeration systems to MLK Health Center and Pharmacy in Louisiana. The refrigerators will be used to increase the clinic’s insulin storage capabilities. One system will be used at the clinic’s emergency shelter in preparation for this year’s upcoming hurricane season.

Direct Relief delivered 477 shipments containing eight tons of medications during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 10.1K shipments to 1,762 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 73 countries.

These shipments contained 181.8 million defined daily doses of medication totaling 2.9 million lbs.

IN THE NEWS

• Direct Relief prepares 5 million N95 masks for fire season in Southern California – KEYT
• Qlik Connect 2024 – the crucial role of data and AI in retail and non-profit organizations – Diginomica

The post Cancer Treatment Arrives in Mongolia, Continued Brazil Flood Response appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 6.4 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including trauma care supplies, vitamins, pain management medications, and more.

Brazil Flood Response

As Brazil continues to recover from devastating flooding earlier this month, Direct Relief is shipping emergency medical supplies and providing funding for healthcare providers on the ground. The flooding has been categorized as an environmental catastrophe comparable to Hurricane Katrina, impacting all of the 497 municipalities in Brazil’s Rio Grande do Sul state.

In coordination with the Brazil California Chamber of Commerce, Direct Relief has been working to identify local organizations providing relief in the affected areas. Direct Relief has issued an initial $50,000 grant to local NGO, S.O.S Irmãos do Litoral, to support their aid distribution efforts, and provided S.O.S Irmãos do Litoral with additional support, including nine pallets of nutritional products.

S.O.S Irmãos do Litoral has been actively responding since the flooding began on May 12, conducting water rescues with their fleet of boats, jet skis, and high-water vehicles. Operating a large warehouse in Rio Grande do Sul, S.O.S Irmãos do Litoral has delivered over 400 tons of aid to over 150 shelters and primary healthcare centers in flood-impacted areas.

Direct Relief will also be delivering 100 field medic packs requested by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). These packs include supplies and equipment to meet a variety of prevalent disaster-related medical issues, including infection control, diagnostics, trauma care, and personal protection tools.

Dengue Treatment Kits Packed for Puerto Rico

In response to recent dengue outbreaks in Puerto Rico, Direct Relief has prepared ten dengue treatment kits to aid first responders treating patients with dengue fever. There is no cure for the disease, but the kits include items to prevent transmission as well as help manage symptoms as the body fights off infection. The kits include mosquito-repellent wipes and spray, oral rehydration salts, acetaminophen for adults and children, and thermometers.

Direct Relief is donating these kits to help limit the spread of dengue and to reduce fever, dehydration, and pain among people who have contracted it. Each kit is designed to prevent dengue for about 1,000 patients and treat mild cases for about 100 patients.

Operational Snapshot

WORLDWIDE

Over the last week, Direct Relief shipped more than 5.7 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 297 shipments containing almost two tons of medications during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 9,594 shipments to 1,722 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 72 countries.

These shipments contained 175.9 million defined daily doses of medication totaling 2.7 million lbs.

IN THE NEWS

• Limited care: Not all reproductive health care services are accessible in Lompoc – Santa Maria Sun
• 3M Named Official Respiratory Protection Sponsor for Direct Relief, Pledges 5 Million N95 Respirators Ahead of Hurricane, Wildfire Season – Market Watch

The post Supporting Flood Relief in Brazil, Puerto Rico Dengue Response appeared first on Direct Relief.

Samdo Kunphen Clinic Breaks Ground

Direct Relief recently initiated the construction of a nurse’s room and kitchen for the Samdo Kunphen Clinic, located in rural Samdo, Nepal. The project aims to enhance the clinic’s infrastructure and facilities for both patients and staff. Direct Relief has assisted the Samdo Kunphen Clinic since a devastating earthquake affected Nepal in 2015.

The additions will be coupled with infrastructure upgrades, including improved sanitation facilities and additional rooms. This project supports Direct Relief’s mission to contribute to sustainable development and livelihood in earthquake-affected regions of Nepal.

Thermal Fogging Machines

To bolster Mexico’s healthcare system in response to a recent surge in dengue cases after Hurricane Otis, Direct Relief announced a donation of equipment and funding, including 1.5 metric tons of requested healthcare supplies.

This donation included 32 thermal fogging machines, which have already been put to use by the Vector Control Department in Acapulco.

Mental Health Summit at Direct Relief

This week, Direct Relief, Teva Pharmaceuticals, and the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) hosted the Community Routes: Access to Mental Health Care Learning Summit.

Teva Pharmaceuticals has supported 11 clinics aimed at advancing health equity by increasing access to care for uninsured patients living with depression and anxiety in California, Florida, and New Jersey. The summit celebrated and acknowledged the impactful work of these clinics and their staff.

Attendees had the opportunity to collaborate and share insights on mental health awareness. Over two days of panel discussions and workshops, they explored effective strategies for treating their communities, including integrating mental health care into clinic services and providing mental health treatment outside clinic walls.

Operational Snapshot

WORLDWIDE

Over the last week, Direct Relief shipped more than 4.1 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 375 shipments containing over eight tons of medications during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 9,275 shipments to 1,692 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 72 countries.

These shipments contained 169.3 million defined daily doses of medication totaling 2.7 million lbs.

IN THE NEWS

• Evelyn Salgado leads delivery of supplies donated by the NGO “Direct Relief” – Milenio
• With Wildfire Season Arriving, Microgrids Can Save Lives and Protect Health – Microgrid Knowledge
• Important cooperation with the Direct Relief Foundation to strengthen maternal and child care – The Ministry of Public Health and Social Welfare of Paraguay
• Medical center installs microgrid to safeguard clinic power supply – Public News Service

The post Boosting Rural Health in Nepal, Dengue Relief in Mexico, Mental Health in the U.S. appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 21 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including insulin, prenatal vitamins, oral rehydration tablets, and more.

Medications Shipped to Flooded Communities in Texas

Direct Relief has been responding to communities impacted by extreme weather over the past week, including in Texas, where heavy rainfall inundated communities in the eastern part of the state, displacing thousands and requiring water rescues for hundreds of people. Multiple counties received large amounts of rainfall, including Harris County, which contains Houston.

Direct Relief shipped requested medical aid this week to health organizations serving flooded communities, including San Jose Clinic, a nonprofit free clinic that serves uninsured or underinsured people in Houston. “During the flood, we had some patients unable to make it to appointments as they were unable to leave their home and the same for some of our team,” San Jose staff reported. Water purification tablets, antibiotics, personal protective gear, disinfecting products, and other medical essentials were shipped this week to the clinic.

TOMAGWA HealthCare Ministries, a free clinic located in Tomball, Texas, also requested support, and Direct Relief shipped personal care packs, filled with essentials like soap, shampoo, toothpaste, and more to support people displaced from their homes due to the floodwaters.

Floods Inundate Brazil with More Rain Expected in Coming Days

In Brazil, devastating flooding has coursed through more than 85 percent of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, where more than 113 people have been killed and hundreds of thousands displaced. More rain is expected this weekend, and Direct Relief is coordinating with the Brazilian Health Regulatory Authority and the Pan American Health Organization, or PAHO, to assess medical needs and requests.

Health impacts from flooding can span from water- and vectorborne illnesses to exacerbation of chronic conditions as people are displaced without access to medications needed to manage their health. Direct Relief maintains an inventory of medications commonly requested after disasters and is ready to respond.

Operational Snapshot

WORLDWIDE

Over the last week, Direct Relief shipped more than 13.9 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 419 shipments containing over five tons of medications during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 8,374 shipments to 1,607 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 69 countries.

These shipments contained 146.9 million defined daily doses of medication totaling 2.5 million lbs.

IN THE NEWS

A Global Relief Organization Keeps the Spigot Open for Community Healthcare Providers Closer to Home – Inside Philanthropy

AWMH Donates $100,000 to Direct Relief’s Flood Relief Efforts in Brazil – Metallica.com

Direct Relief Commits $3 Million to Jamaica for Hurricane Resilience – Philanthropy News Digest

The post Direct Relief Responding to Flooding, Extreme Weather in U.S., Brazil appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 6.7 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including insulin, prenatal vitamins, oral rehydration tablets, and more.

After Flooding, Kenya Prepares for Cyclone

In Kenya, heavy rains and flash floods have left more than 200 people dead, dozens missing, and over 150,000 people displaced across Nairobi, Makueni, West Pokot and Machakos counties according to the National Disaster Operations Center. Heavy rains have inundated the country since March, and the country is bracing for landfall from Cyclone Hidaya, expected to make landfall Friday in Kenya and Tanzania, where flooding fatalities have also continued to rise into the hundreds.

Flooding and resulting displacement can cause a host of health problems, including limited access to clean drinking water, the proliferation of water- and vector-borne illnesses, power outages, and damaged infrastructure that can limit travel to receive medical care. Those who are displaced from their homes may also face compounding health issues, as they may be cut off from medications and equipment needed to manage chronic conditions, including diabetes, which can escalate into crisis and the need for emergency care.

Direct Relief has a long history of support to Kenya, and has provided more than $40 million in medical support to health facilities across the country. This includes general medical support, insulin for patients managing diabetes, and rare disease therapies. Kenyatta National Hospital is one hospital that has received this medical support from Direct Relief in the past, and the organization is in communication with the hospital about medical needs resulting from flooding and the cyclone’s impacts. Direct Relief is also in contact with the Kenyan Red Cross Society to support their emergency medical outreach and search and rescue teams. Direct Relief also has supported medical facilities in Tanzania with more than $74 million in medical aid, including during times of disaster, such as Cyclone Idai in 2019.

Direct Relief will continue to monitor the storm’s impacts on communities in Kenya and Tanzania and respond to requests for medical support as they become known.

Supporting Health Resilience in Jamaica Ahead of Hurricane Season

Direct Relief this week announced a US$3 million grant to Jamaica as part of its ongoing commitment to bolstering resilience in the Caribbean region. This contribution, which will support the installation of a large solar energy system at a central primary pharmaceutical distribution facility, comes as part of the organization’s renewal of its ongoing partnership with the island nation, aimed at strengthening healthcare systems and infrastructure in the face of natural disasters and other emergencies.

Direct Relief staff met with members of Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and Wellness to tour the National Health Fund Pharmaceutical Distribution Facility and visit local health centers. A Memorandum of Understanding was also signed to continue the flow of medical aid and support to the nation’s health system.

Jamaica, like many other nations in the Caribbean, faces unique challenges in maintaining healthcare access, particularly in the wake of natural disasters such as hurricanes. Direct Relief’s grant seeks to address these challenges by supporting initiatives that enhance emergency preparedness, expand access to essential medical supplies and equipment, and fortify healthcare infrastructure.

Haleon Staff Support Building of Personal Care Packs

Over the past three months, Direct Relief has partnered with Haleon staff to pack 5,300 personal care kits, which include basic hygiene items like soap, shampoo, and dental care products, across nine locations. Local organizations who received these kits, including NeoMed Center, Inc. and Corporación La Fondita de Jesús, attended these events to share more about their work within the community with the Haleon team.

The kits have been distributed to local organizations working with migrant and refugee populations, people experiencing homelessness, or others in need of basic personal care items.

Operational Snapshot

WORLDWIDE

Over the last week, Direct Relief shipped more than 5.8 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 552 shipments containing almost two tons of medications during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 7,932 shipments to 1,591 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 69 countries.

These shipments contained 125.6 million defined daily doses of medication totaling 2.4 million lbs.

IN THE NEWS

Kee Cha-E-Nar Corporation Receives $250k from Direct Relief’s Fund for Health Equity – The Yurok Tribe

Health Sector Receives US$3 Million from Direct Relief – Jamaica Information Service

Midwifery in the Era of Climate Change: Lessons from the wildfires in Maui – International Confederation of Midwives

Direct Relief Supporting Family Health in Ukraine – Angels in Medicine

Direct Relief Donates US$3 Million to Health Sector – Philanthropy News Digest

Direct Relief Donates $3 Million to Strengthen Jamaica’s Health System – Caribbean National Weekly

Expanding Hope: A New Dawn in Dnipro – Levitate

The post Preparing for Cyclone Hidaya in Kenya as Medical Aid Departs for 13 Countries This Week appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 13.4 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including insulin, prenatal vitamins, oral rehydration tablets, and more.

Strengthening Cold Chain Capacity for Free Clinics

Recently, several pharmaceutical-grade refrigeration systems donated by Sanofi were delivered by Direct Relief to multiple clinics across the U.S., including Ozanam Charitable Pharmacy in Alabama and Welvista in South Carolina.

These fridges have expanded capacity at these sites, allowing for more storage of temperature-sensitive medications, like vaccines and insulin. The systems were donated and placed as part of Direct Relief’s ReplenishRx program, which works to provide free and charitable clinics with medications and supplies at no cost.

Supporting Care for Women in Malawi

This week, Dr. Anne Alaniz, a gynecological oncologist and founder of Pothawira International, spoke about her work in Malawi and her plans to build a new surgical center that will expand care for women in the region.

Direct Relief has supported Pothawira International with more than $5 million in oncology medications, midwife kits, which contain 50 essential items to facilitate safe births, and other requested medical aid. Pothawira, which translates to “Safe Haven,” includes an outpatient clinic, which sees 200 patients a day and a birthing center, which is expected to exceed 500 deliveries in 2024.

A new surgical center, which will include four operating rooms, will enable safe cesarean deliveries, laparoscopic surgeries, radiology services, and more for women who need cancer treatments or are experiencing birth complications. Pothawira also operates an orphanage, primary school, and sustainability farm to support community needs.

Dr. Alaniz, originally from Malawi and who moved to the U.S. at 16, now practices medicine at Houston Methodist Hospital between her medical missions in Malawi. She spoke to a gathering of about 120 people in Montecito, California, this week to raise awareness about Pothawira International and Direct Relief’s Maternal and Child Health Programs in advance of Mother’s Day.

Click here to learn more about Dr. Alaniz and Pothawira International.

Direct Relief Hosts Health Fair in Puerto Rico

Direct Relief and La Fondita de Jesús, a nonprofit focused on services to unhoused people and other vulnerable populations, hosted a health fair on April 23 in Rio Piedra, Puerto Rico. The fair offered health services, personal care kits filled with hygiene items for attendees, and more.

Direct Relief Chief Pharmacy Officer Honored

Direct Relief’s Chief Pharmacy Officer Alycia Clark, PharmD, has been selected among the “Top 50 Women in Business” by the Pacific Coast Business Times.

The Business Times honors 50 of the region’s top women leaders in a number of sectors, including finance, professional services, health care, technology, and nonprofits. Clark was selected for her outstanding contributions to public health and emergency response.

Read the full selection article here.

Operational Snapshot

WORLDWIDE

Over the last week, Direct Relief shipped more than 13 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Included in this week’s shipments were deliveries of oral rehydration salts in response to the outbreak of dengue fever in Puerto Rico. The organization is monitoring the outbreak and will continue to respond as requested.

Direct Relief delivered 510 shipments containing over four tons of medications during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 7,666 shipments to 1,573 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 67 countries.

These shipments contained 121.6 million defined daily doses of medication totaling 2.4 million lbs.

The post Supporting Street Medicine in Puerto Rico, Women’s Health in Malawi, and More appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 3.3 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including cancer therapies, rare disease treatments, prenatal vitamins, field medic packs for triage care, and more.

Dr. Edna Adan Ismail Visits Direct Relief HQ

Dr. Edna Adan Ismail, former first lady of Somalia, 2023 Templeton Prize winner, and esteemed nurse-midwife, visited Direct Relief this week to meet with staff and speak to an audience about her work to improve the health and lives of women at Edna Adan University Hospital, in Hargeisa, Somaliland.

Adan was trained as a nurse and midwife in the United Kingdom and has worked for decades in Somaliland as an activist and health provider to end female circumcision and increase maternal access to health care.

Located in Adan’s hometown of Hargeisa, the Edna Adan University and Hospital has significantly reduced maternal mortality for women in the region, and the nonprofit charity hospital and training facility provides health services and education to the next generation of midwives. Since 2008, Direct Relief has supported the hospital with $6 million worth of medical aid, including equipment specifically to outfit trained midwives. Direct Relief’s Midwife Kits contain essential items needed to facilitate safe delivery.

Ismail toured Direct Relief’s 150,000 sq. ft. warehouse, met with staff about maternal health efforts in the region, and then spoke to the public about her vision of creating a sanctuary of care and learning.

Read More

COVID-19

The “Cruel Beast” of Covid-19: A Q&A with Edna Adan

The women’s health advocate and former Somaliland foreign minister weighs in on maternal care during Covid-19, the disease’s unknowns, and humanitarian responsibility.

MATERNAL HEALTH

What a Difference a Person Can Make: A Conversation with Edna Adan

Edna Adan has made helping mothers and babies the mission of her life, and does so in her homeland of Somaliland, where the need is great. 

MATERNAL HEALTH

Celebrating Midwives Around the World

Midwives are the first line of assistance, providing high-quality care during routine deliveries and managing basic complications. But midwives can only do their work if they have the right tools.

U.S. Wildfire Season Preparation

With the start of the U.S. wildfire season on the horizon, Direct Relief working to support healthcare providers located in historically impacted regions ahead of time. The organization recently shipped field medic packs to partners in Northern California, including Worldwide Healing Hands and Sacramento Medical Reserve Corps.

Designed with input from emergency physicians and public health officials, each pack contains supplies and equipment to meet a variety of prevalent disaster-related medical issues, including infection control, diagnostics, trauma care, and personal protection tools.

Direct Relief supports safety net providers and others responding to wildfires by providing medical aid, as well as emergency funding, funding and infrastructure for resilient power, and provides analysis for governments and first responders to help make informed decisions.

Learn more about Direct Relief’s wildfire response here.

Direct Relief Documentary Admitted to Global Film Festival

Direct Relief’s documentary, co-produced with BBC StoryWorks, ‘The Invisible Impact of Wildfires,’ was selected for admission to the Fifth ‘Health for All’ Film Festival hosted by the World Health Organization.

‘Invisible Impacts of Wildfires’ is part of a series called “The Climate and Us” by BBC StoryWorks and the Global Climate and Health Alliance. The series goes around the world exploring how the climate crisis is a health crisis while highlighting innovative healthcare solutions being used to help respond.

Watch the documentary here.

operational Snapshot

WORLDWIDE

Included in this week’s global shipments was a delivery of seven pallets of requested medical supplies and medications that departed Direct Relief’s Santa Barbara warehouse this week bound for Honduras. The shipment will be distributed to Fundación Ruth Paz, Clínica Esperanza, and Hospital Loma de Luz. (Video by Maeve Ozimec/Direct Relief)

Over the last week, Direct Relief shipped more than 1.8 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 527 shipments containing almost four tons of medications during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 7,140 shipments to 1,523 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 62 countries.

These shipments contained 108.5 million defined daily doses of medication totaling 2.3 million lbs.

In the News

Viatris Announces Product Donations To Direct Relief of More Than 7 Million Doses of Medicine To Support Access to Medicine and Healthcare – Morning Star

Plan A Health Hits the Road for Patients in Mississippi Delta – Angels in Medicine

Pacific Pride Foundation Hosts 11th Annual PROUD Prom in Collaboration with ILRC – The Santa Barbara Independent

The post Dr. Edna Adan Ismail, Globally Renowned Nurse-Midwife, Visits Direct Relief appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 5.6 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including surgical supplies, trauma response essentials, nutritional products, and more.

Shipments Arrive at Aberdeen Women’s Center

Recently, Aberdeen Women’s Center in Sierra Leone received Direct Relief’s Obstetric Fistula Repair Modules to support maternal health in the region. Each module contains surgical items, tools, and medications to equip surgeons for approximately 50 obstetric fistula repair surgeries. Obstetric fistula is a birth injury that can cause social stigma and serious health impacts if unaddressed.

The comprehensive module was created in close consultation with leading surgical experts and is endorsed by the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO). Learn more about Direct Relief’s Fistula Repair program here.

Since 2010, Aberdeen Women’s Centre has received over 16 tons of requested medical supplies totaling over $1.2 million from Direct Relief.

Children Receive Care in Ukraine

Ukrainian NGO Charity Fund Modern Village and Town, with the support of Direct Relief, recently provided medical consultations to children in need of care in Kirovohrad, Ukraine. Specialists examined and provided consultations for 250 children from newborn to 18 years of age, free of charge.

Additionally, Ukrainian Soul, an organization supported by Direct Relief in Odesa, Ukraine, received multiple shipments from Direct Relief. The deliveries included prescription flu treatments, Hepatitis B treatment, and a variety of oncology medications. The medications will be distributed to a network of medical facilities in the coming days.

Operational Snapshot

WORLDWIDE

Over the last week, Direct Relief shipped more than 4.6 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 323 shipments containing over five tons of medications during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 5,739 shipments to 1,367 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 58 countries.

These shipments contained 90.4 million defined daily doses of medication totaling 2 million lbs.

In the News

With Frequent Outages in Tribal Communities Creating Health Risks, Direct Relief Provides $10 Million for Microgrids – Microgrid Knowledge

For Health Workers on Haiti’s Frontlines, Direct Relief Distributes $1 Million in Support – ReliefWeb

How to Do Foreign Aid Without Stepping on Federal Toes – Federal News Network

Renowned Midwife Speaks for International Women’s Day – Angels in Medicine

The post Supporting Maternal Care in Sierra Leone, Family Health in Ukraine appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 8.2 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including antibiotics, personal protection equipment, personal care kits and more.

Supporting Migrants from Haiti in Mexico

This week, in collaboration with Hospitalidad y Solidaridad and the International Organization for Migration, over 500 Direct Relief personal care kits were distributed to migrants in Tapachula, Chiapas, Mexico. This initiative aims to provide vital support amid the tumultuous circumstances faced by thousands awaiting asylum processing in Tapachula.

Why It Matters:

The crisis unfolding in Tapachula underscores the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and the importance of solidarity and support for vulnerable populations. As the primary destination for many migrants fleeing violence and instability in neighboring countries, Mexico faces the challenge of providing aid and protection to those seeking refuge within its borders.

Direct Relief’s Response:

This event provides essential personal care kits, filled with hygiene items including toothpaste and shampoo, to alleviate the immediate needs of migrants, particularly from Haiti, residing in Tapachula. These kits will not only contribute to improved health and sanitation but also offer support to individuals navigating challenging circumstances.

Key Insights:

• The situation in Tapachula is indicative of broader migration trends, with Haiti surpassing Honduras as the leading source of asylum seekers in Mexico.
• Discrimination and systemic challenges persist in the asylum process, particularly for Haitian migrants who often face barriers to recognition and support.
• The testimonies of migrants highlight the dire conditions and systemic injustices driving their journeys, emphasizing the need for comprehensive solutions and international cooperation.

Strengthening Health Services in Culebra

As part of Direct Relief’s efforts to breach healthcare access gaps for vulnerable populations in Puerto Rico, Direct Relief staff, alongside medical staff from HealthProMed and La Fondita de Jesús, conducted a community health fair in the island municipality of Culebra on Friday, March 15. The team distributed personal care kits filled with hygiene items, solar-powered lights, and groceries to 100 people.

Historically, residents in Culebra have been isolated both physically and in terms of resources, including food, health services and transportation, among others. Located east of the main island, Culebra commonly experiences the impacts of hurricanes prior to their landfall in mainland Puerto Rico.

Health staff from La Fondita de Jesús evaluated more than 26 patients from their Direct Relief-donated mobile unit. The team also offered training on stress and anxiety management, proper use of medication, counseling on substance abuse and community development to more than 100 participants.

HealthProMed, a federally qualified health center in the area, offered blood pressure, glucose and HIV tests, health education and nutrition training to 96 registered patients. This community health fair further stressed the need to mobilize healthcare services to vulnerable and isolated communities. Many of the patients that were seen rely on maritime transportation to the main island to receive basic medical services.

At the island’s local public school, located adjacent to the health fair’s location, HealthProMed simultaneously held nutritional talks for over 60 students from elementary and middle school to promote increased physical activity, highlighting the importance of sports. Additionally, they hosted a basketball exhibition game for the students. Fundación Atención Atención also provided their Play-Time hour to foster emotion management and resilience through play for 35 children.

Bungie Bounty for Good

The Bungie Foundation, which has supported Direct Relief with several fundraising campaigns in the past, ran a four-hour live broadcast on Friday, May 22. The event showcased Bungie’s feature game, Destiny 2, and raised awareness of Direct Relief’s work. The Bungie Foundation has partnered with Direct Relief since 2015, beginning after the devastating earthquake in Nepal when the Bungie community rallied together to raise more than $1 million for the response efforts. Learn more about streaming and Direct Relief here.

Operational Snapshot

WORLDWIDE

Over the last week, Direct Relief shipped more than 6.7 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Thirty pallets of requested medical supplies and medications departed Direct Relief’s warehouse in Santa Barbara, California, on March 19, 2024, bound for Ukraine. The shipment will be received by Ukrainian Soul and distributed to local healthcare facilities.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 497 shipments containing over four tons of medications during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 5,383 shipments to 1,324 partner organizations in 53 U.S. states and territories and 57 countries.

These shipments contained 85.2 million defined daily doses of medication totaling 1.5 million lbs.

In the News

Critical hospital supplies and insulin for children with diabetes are among requested shipments making their way through treacherous shipping routes – Angels in Medicine

AmeriCorps hosting homeless outreach in Isla Vista – KEYT

The post Supporting Haitian Migrants in Mexico, Health Services in Puerto Rico, and More appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 9.2 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including prenatal vitamins, surgical supplies, insulin and more.

This week, more than four tons of medicines, including antibiotics, antifungal medications, and painkillers, donated by Direct Relief, were received by the NGO Kurdistan Save the Children. The medications were distributed to local healthcare facilities, including hospitals, cancer treatment centers, and maternity centers, in collaboration with the Directorate of Medicines and Medical Supplies in the Kurdistan Region.

Personal Care Items Distributed in Isla Vista

On Friday, staff from AmeriCorps hosted a community coffee hour for unhoused community members in the Community Center in Isla Vista, California. Personal care kits, containing toothbrushes, shampoo, deodorant and other hygiene items, donated by Direct Relief, were distributed to attendees, as well as groceries and coffee.

Operational Snapshot

WORLDWIDE

Over the last week, Direct Relief shipped more than 7.9 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Thirty-one pallets of requested medical supplies and medications departed Direct Relief’s warehouse in Santa Barbara, California, on March 15, 2024, bound for Ukraine.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 472 shipments containing nearly seven tons of medications during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 4,864 shipments to 1,280 partner organizations in 53 U.S. states and territories and 54 countries.

These shipments contained 77 million defined daily doses of medication totaling 1.4 million lbs.

In the News

Should I Stay or Should I Go? Charities’ Response Amid Haiti’s Violent Unrest – Charity Watch

IOM and Direct Relief team up for crisis-afflicted migrants – InfoMigrants

Direct Relief awards $7 million in health equity grants – Philanthropy News Digest

Combat to Conquest: Vasil’s Path to Success – Let’s Levitate

The post Aid Distributed to Ukraine, Kurdistan, and More Over the Past Seven Days appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 2.9 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including personal hygiene essentials, respiratory medications, vitamins and more.

Renowned Midwife Speaks for International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day drew a crowd of over 100 people to hear firsthand about the essential work of midwives from a midwife who responded to the 2022 floods in Pakistan to serve women who had little to no access to care.

Neha Mankani spoke at Direct Relief headquarters on Friday, shortly after a short documentary called “Neha,” which chronicles her efforts to bring midwifery care to communities impacted by the catastrophic floods in Pakistan’s Sindh Province, was shown to those gathered. A volunteer event was also held to pack personal care items for women worldwide.

In November 2023, Mankani was named among the “2023 BBC 100 Women,” highlighting inspiring and influential women from across the globe. Mankani was a Fulbright Scholar and earned a master’s in public health from Columbia University, a midwife and founder of Mama Baby Fund and works with the International Confederation of Midwives to shape policy and advocate for midwives globally.

Direct Relief often supports the work of midwives during emergencies because they are usually first responders to those most vulnerable, including pregnant women and infants. Direct Relief CEO Thomas Tighe introduced Mankani and said the organization works to connect resources to midwives in the wake of disasters for just that reason. “When we see an earthquake, or a typhoon… we’re thinking of midwives because they always show up,” Tighe said.

The documentary shows Mankani working to access clinics where demand for health services far outpaced capacity after the 2022 floods and showed the devastating impacts of climate on health. Afterward, Mankani was interviewed by Paulina Ospina, Direct Relief’s Maternal and Child Health Associate Director, and the two spoke about the significant intersections of climate change and the impacts on pregnant people and young children. For example, the impacts of heat can have direct implications for the prevalence of hypertension, pre-eclampsia, and even pre-term birth, Mankani said.

Environmental factors have direct impacts on women and children, including lack of access to quality food due to crop devastation from flooding and lost livelihoods for agricultural workers. Malaria and other vector-borne diseases are also related, as well as access to clean water and timely health care. Gender inequity and gender-based violence also add layers to women accessing care and resources.

“All of these disasters are set against an already weak health system,” she said. “It makes a poor situation worse.”

The documentary showed a scene of Mankani holding a listening session with midwives in Pakistan, asking them what they need to feel empowered in their communities to do their work safely and effectively. Because many policies around health care and midwifery are made at the Ministry of Health and country level, direct feedback from midwives is often left out of the conversation. But that’s changing, Mankani said, a fact that she finds extremely hopeful.

“There’s a sense of ‘nothing about us, without us’,” she said. “There’s a recognition that a lot of the change needs to come from the ground.”

Texas Wildfires

Historic wildfires have impacted Texas, with the largest being the Smokehouse Creek Fire, which burned over one million acres with 74% containment as of Friday, March 8, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service.

In response, a shipment of requested personal care items, medications, and supplies departed Direct Relief’s warehouse in Santa Barbara, California, and this week, it was bound for Amarillo, Texas.

Regence Health Network, a federally qualified health center, will use donations to treat patients with respiratory issues related to smoke inhalation and allergies.

NACHC President Visits Direct Relief

Last week, National Association of Community Health Centers President and CEO Dr. Kyu Rhee visited Direct Relief headquarters in Santa Barbara, California. Dr. Rhee met with Direct Relief leadership and staff to discuss the organizations’ partnership and combined impacts on patients in the U.S.

Operational Snapshot

WORLDWIDE

Over the last week, Direct Relief shipped more than 1.7 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 404 shipments containing nearly 13 tons of medications during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 4,381 shipments to 1,248 partner organizations in 53 U.S. states and territories and 52 countries.

These shipments contained 67.8 million defined daily doses of medication totaling 1.3 million lbs.

In the News

Direct Relief celebrates International Women’s Day – KEYT

Teva’s ESG Lead on Why Company Committed to Community-Led Mental Health Push – PR Week

The post Responding to Texas Wildfires, Celebrating International Women’s Day, and More appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 7.2 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including personal care products, breast pumps, surgical materials, vitamins, and more.

Medical Aid Arrives in Sudan

Direct Relief continues to respond in Sudan as the civil war has impacted healthcare facilities and infrastructure, leading to protracted shortages of medicines and medical supplies.

Recently, a Direct Relief-supported organization, MedGlobal, distributed shipments of donated supplies, including oral rehydration salts, to local healthcare providers.

Since the civil war started in April 2023, Direct Relief has sent more than 37 tons of requested medicines and medical supplies, including prenatal vitamins, surgical materials, insulin, and personal care items, amounting to $8.7 million in wholesale value.

Direct Relief has been coordinating with the Federal Ministry of Health, World Food Programme, Sudanese Children’s Diabetes Association, International Society of Better Health Access, International Organization for Migration, International Society of Nephrology, and MedGlobal.

Direct Relief will continue to respond as needed.

Equipping Volunteer Firefighters in Mexico

Two weeks ago, Direct Relief delivered 10 field medic packs to local emergency response agencies in Oaxaca, Mexico, including the Comision Nacional de Emergencia, A.C., local firefighters and Protección Civil personnel.

This week, the packs were used by local forestry brigades for the treatment of injuries as the crews fought forest fires in Oaxaca. There are currently six active fires in the state at various levels of containment. Five volunteers have died in the efforts to contain the fires.

Mexico is currently experiencing a severe drought that is affecting its southern states. While states in northern Mexico are receiving significant rainfall due to the El Niño climate pattern, states in southern Mexico are seeing far lower levels of rain and higher frequency of fires in the mountainous regions of the country.

Direct Relief Signs Agreement with IOM

Direct Relief staff met with representatives of the International Office of Migration in Washington, D.C., this week to sign a memorandum of understanding to streamline and expand aid delivery globally to migrant communities.

Beyond immediate relief efforts, the partnership will strengthen emergency preparedness and response activities, including the stockpile and pre-position medical supplies in collaboration with IOM host countries.

“Our partnership with Direct Relief opens doors to resources that are vital for delivering urgent medicines and supplies to those in need, particularly in moments of crisis,” said Ugochi Daniels, IOM’s Deputy Director General for Operations. Central to this landmark partnership is the provision of medicines, medical equipment, and healthcare supplies. This critical assistance will strengthen IOM’s capacity to respond swiftly to the acute health needs of migrants and mobile populations during humanitarian and public health emergencies.

“Direct Relief is so pleased to join in partnership with IOM to help address the tremendous humanitarian health needs that exist among the world’s migrants and the communities that host them,” said Thomas Tighe, Chief Executive Officer of Direct Relief. “Private, philanthropic resources have always been an important part of the humanitarian assistance efforts for migrants, and we look forward to extending a broader invitation to participate — in a productive, efficient manner through coordination with IOM, which will optimize all available resources and best serve people in need.”

To read the full announcement, click here.

Monitoring Texas Wildfires

Five active fires are currently impacting the Texas Panhandle, north of Amarillo. As of February 29, the Smokehouse Creek Fire has burned a total of 1,078,807 acres (3% contained), making it the largest fire in the state’s history and second largest in U.S. history. The fire is threatening to converge with the Windy Deuce Fire to the southwest, putting the town of Borger, which currently sits in between the two fires, at extremely high risk.

Direct Relief’s Research and Analysis team is monitoring and mapping the real-time mobility of those displaced by the fire, social vulnerabilities, and power outage impacts. Click the image to view the updated map here:

Operational Snapshot

WORLDWIDE

Over the last week, Direct Relief shipped more than 5.9 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 527 shipments containing over 3 tons of medications during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 3,963 shipments to 1,206 partner organizations in 53 U.S. states and territories and 51 countries.

These shipments contained 64.9 million defined daily doses of medication totaling 1.2 million lbs.

In the News

Better Health Support for People in Crisis Situations Under Direct Relief Agreement – IOM

A Maui Community Health Center Receives a Down Payment to Rebuild and Recover after Devastating Wildfire – National Association of Community Health Centers

‘Fortnite’ Raises $144 Million for Ukraine Aid Over Two-Week Span – Aol.com

The Annual Guardian Games Cup Returns – Bungie

BU Theatre Department Puts on ‘Three Sisters’ Play – Binghamton University Pipe Dream

Direct Relief’s Fund for Health Equity Awards $7 Million to 38 Organizations Across the U.S. – 3BL

Medical Aid To Ukraine Dwindling With News Fatigue: US Healthcare And Medical Providers – We Must Do More – Med City News

The post Medicines and Supplies Arrive in Sudan as Civil War Continues appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 12.9 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including prenatal vitamins, wound care supplies, surgical essentials and more.

Responding to California Storms

California experienced two back-to-back atmospheric rivers, with the second causing widespread damage from flooding and high winds. An estimated 520 mudslides have occurred in Los Angeles alone, resulting in nine deaths. Authorities are warning of the prolonged danger of landslides as the weather has eased, but has left the ground unstable.

In response, Direct Relief dispatched multiple immediate shipments of requested aid to partner organizations across the state. Field medic packs, filled with items for triage care outside of clinic walls, and personal care kits, packed with hygiene items like soap, toothbrushes, and toothpaste, departed Direct Relief’s warehouse this week in Santa Barbara, California, for distribution to organizations, including R.OA.D.S. Community Care Clinic, Universal Community Health Center, and the Children’s Clinic.

Earlier this week, direct Relief delivered additional shipments of requested supplies to healthcare centers in San Diego, including YMCA San Diego and Imperial Beach Community Clinic. California Emergency Medical Services Agency (Cal EMSA) also received 40 requested field medic packs for teams deployed throughout the state in response to the storms.

The organization will continue to respond as needs become known.

Monitoring Chile Wildfires

Since February 1, multiple fires have impacted central and southern Chile. An intense heatwave and dry conditions led to the burning of 14,000 homes and more than 64,200 acres of land in Valparaiso and Viña del Mar, according to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).

Direct Relief is in direct communication with PAHO and Fundacion FEDES on emerging needs related to this event. This week, PAHO will ship ten Direct Relief field medic packs and additional emergency supplies to Chile.

Operational Snapshot

WORLDWIDE

Over the last week, Direct Relief shipped more than 11.4 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 272 shipments containing over six tons of medications during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 2,421 shipments to 988 partner organizations in 51 U.S. states and territories and 41 countries.

These shipments contained 40 million defined daily doses of medication totaling 462,143 lbs.

In the News

How to help California victims of atmospheric river floods – FOX Weather

Direct Relief and Red Cross help storm victims up and down the coast – KEYT

Volunteers help with sand bags in Montecito – KEYT

The post Responding to California Storms, Flooding appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 3.2 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including insulin, surgical supplies, nutritional supplements, and more.

Medical Aid Supports U.S. Health Clinics

In response to recent severe storms, this week 12 pallets of requested medical aid departed Direct Relief’s warehouse in Santa Barbara, California, for U.S. health clinics across the country.

The medical aid includes pain medications, diabetes treatment supplies, and vitamins, which are essential for providing continued care to patients. These donations will help ensure continued care amid weather disruptions across the country.

Equipping Search and Rescue Teams in Puerto Rico

This week, Direct Relief donated 24 field medic packs to the Puerto Rico Emergency Management Bureau and Disaster Administration’s (NMEAD) specialized rescue units, as well as Puerto Rico’s Urban Search and Rescue Medical Team.

Other attendees included the search and rescue coordinators’ unit composed of doctors, nurses and paramedics who are charged with managing and executing rescue operations, ensuring efficiency across the search and the safety of the teams.

Direct Relief’s field medic packs contain supplies and equipment to meet a variety of prevalent disaster-related medical issues, including infection control, diagnostics, trauma care, and personal protective equipment.

Respiratory Medications Reach Newborns in Lebanon

A shipment of lifesaving medications for premature infants recently arrived in Lebanon, and will support hospital care in NICU settings. The requested respiratory medications, donated by Direct Relief, are otherwise unavailable in Lebanon due to medication stock-outs from the country’s economic crisis.

The medications were delivered to Lebanon in coordination with NGO Anera, and are being used to improve lung capacity for babies requiring breathing support.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

Over the last week, Direct Relief shipped 1.8 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 354 shipments containing over seven tons of medications during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 1,024 shipments to 606 partner organizations in 51 U.S. states and territories and 22 countries.

These shipments contained 19.2M defined daily doses of medication totaling 281,455 lbs.

The post Shipments Depart as Winter Weather Batters U.S. appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 24 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including prenatal vitamins, vaccines, nutritional supplements, anti-inflammatories, and more.

Puerto Rico Health Fair

Recently, Direct Relief and Puerto Rican NGO La Fondita de Jesús collaborated to bring primary healthcare services to the community of Villa Calma in Tao Baja, an underserved metropolitan area composed of roughly 150 families in Puerto Rico vulnerable to flooding.

Volunteer healthcare providers from La Fondita de Jesús treated community members using a mobile medical unit donated by Direct Relief. Services included administering vaccines and visiting patients with mobility challenges to ensure they were cared for. Direct Relief team members distributed personal care items and solar-powered lights for use since the community experiences frequent power outages.

Additionally, as part of La Fondita de Jesús’ mission to empower communities on self-sustainability, the organization delivered groceries to families and provided community development education, including maintaining home gardens.

Providing Medical Oxygen in Yemen

An oxygen plant opened this week in Yemen’s Shabwah Governorate, bringing medical-grade oxygen to nearly 70,000 individuals being treated in the region’s hospitals and health centers. This project was installed and facilitated by Yemen Aid with funding from Direct Relief and will produce up to 50 cylinders of oxygen per day.

The World Health Organization classifies medical oxygen as an essential medicine and is often used in healthcare settings to treat patients with respiratory illnesses, like Covid-19 and pneumonia, during surgery and trauma care, in the neonatal intensive care unit for babies requiring additional oxygen support, and more.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

Over the last week, Direct Relief shipped 22.1 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 528 shipments containing over three tons of medications during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 344 shipments to 276 partner organizations in 42 US states and territories and 10 countries.

These shipments contained 11.2M defined daily doses of medication totaling 142,966 lbs.

The post Supporting Healthcare in Puerto Rico, Medical Oxygen in Yemen appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 578.9 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including antibiotics, prenatal vitamins, personal care kits for those displaced by disasters and emergencies, vaccines, cancer treatment therapies, insulin, and more.

2023 at a Glance

Direct Relief responded to a range of events in 2023, from natural disasters to war. The organization worked with countless health providers and community members who stepped up to help others around them. Below are some of their stories.

Supporting Local Search and Rescue

In 2023, Direct Relief, in coordination with the California Office of Emergency Services, donated multiple emergency response vehicles to bolster search and rescue efforts in California.

Southern California, where Direct Relief’s headquarters is located, experienced torrential rain last week, with some areas receiving over 15 inches.

During these rains, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office conducted its first in-county deployment of the Medcat, a rescue vehicle donated by Direct Relief earlier this year. The vehicle assisted in the evacuation of seven residents and 10 animals as floodwaters rose.

In addition to the Medcat, Direct Relief also donated a search and rescue truck to Santa Barbara County in July to support local rescue efforts.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

In 2023, Direct Relief shipped 492 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past year included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 20,600 shipments containing over 407 tons of medications over the past year to organizations, including the following:

IN THE NEWS

‘The Bell’ Symphony for Cello and Orchestra to support Direct Relief efforts in Ukraine – The Strad

Ask Amy: Annual charity column shows ways to give – The Washington Post

US trust to establish new infectious disease hubs in Aurangabad, Latur – The Times of India

The post 2023 in Review appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 7.2 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including insulin, vaccines, emergency hygiene kits, and personal care products.

Tennessee Tornadoes

Over the past weekend, tornadoes impacted multiple counties in Tennessee, killing at least six people and injuring at least two dozen more.

In response to the storms and tornadoes in Tennessee, Direct Relief sent offers of assistance to health centers and clinics in impacted areas.

In response, an initial shipment of 50 personal care kits arrived at Faith Family Medical Clinic. The kits contain items such as toothbrushes, soap, and other essentials for people displaced from their homes due to the storms.

Requested shipments of chronic disease medications, as well as vitamins and nutritional products, departed earlier this week for Neighborhood Health, a community health center with multiple locations in Davidson and Wilson Counties.

Supporting Maui Residents After the Fires

Last week, volunteers packed 5,000 kits of personal protective equipment, including gloves and boot covers, at Direct Relief’s headquarters in Santa Barbara. These kits will be shipped to Maui and provided for free to people re-entering Lahaina after the devastating fires in August.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 4.2 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 452 shipments containing almost 13 tons of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since January 1, 2023, Direct Relief has delivered 21,000 shipments to 2,503 healthcare providers in 55 U.S. states and territories and 88 countries.

These shipments contained 541.3 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $1.9 billion (wholesale), totaling 6.1 million lbs.

IN THE NEWS

Direct Relief ranks fifth in Forbes top 100 largest U.S. charities – KEYT

America’s Top 100 Charities – Forbes Magazine

How To Use Forbes’ Top Charities List To Guide Your Own Giving – Forbes

The post Shipments for Tennessee Tornadoes, Protective Gear for Maui, and More appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 15.5 million defined daily doses of medication and supplies, including prenatal vitamins, insulin, rare disease therapies, personal protective equipment, and chronic disease medications.

One of this week’s recipients was Care Beyond the Boulevard, a Kansas City-based organization dedicated to providing medical care to those living without permanent housing.

The group received donated medications and supplies, including insulin, nutritional supplements, and anti-inflammatories.

Additionally, over 4.7 million N95 masks departed Direct Relief’s warehouse this week for the Ministry of Health of Baja California. They will be distributed to multiple groups and government agencies in the region.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 13.6 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 532 shipments containing more than six tons of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since January 1, 2023, Direct Relief has delivered 20,500 shipments to 2,485 healthcare providers in 55 U.S. states and territories and 88 countries.

These shipments contained 534.2 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $1.9 billion (wholesale), totaling 6.1 million lbs.

IN THE NEWS

Health for All: Reflections on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on its 75th Anniversary – LinkedIn

“It’s Amazing What Can Be Done Here.” Colorado Health Center Offers Community for Those in Recovery – National Association of Community Health Centers

Veterans Stand Down 2023 Helps More than 400 Military Vets – The Santa Barbara Independent

United We Bake Harnessing Power of Comfort Food to Aid Direct Relief’s Efforts in Israel and Gaza – Noozhawk

Meharry SACS Students Named Direct Relief Scholars – Meharry School of Applied Computational Sciences

The post Shipments Depart to Support U.S. Street Medicine, Masks for Mexico appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 6.4 million defined daily doses of medication, including emergency medical backpacks, PPE, antibiotics and more.

Volcano response, central mexico

Popocatépetl, Mexico’s most active volcano, has experienced heightened exhalation, tremor, and explosive activity since May 9, resulting in a Yellow phase 3 alert and the possibility of evacuation as a preventive measure against observed changes. This increase in activity has directly impacted the surrounding population in forty municipalities, causing ashfall and leading to the closure of schools, suspension of outdoor activities, and the cancellation of over 1,000 flights at Mexico City, Puebla, and Morelos airports. As of May 26, monitoring systems have detected 59 exhalations accompanied by volcanic gases, ash, and water vapor. Additionally, high-frequency tremors and ashfall have been observed in nearby municipalities.

In preparation for a potential eruption, Direct Relief has been in communication with the Mexican Red Cross, which has activated 4,000 volunteers ready to act at a moment’s notice. Direct Relief delivered 20 Emergency Response Backpacks to the Mexican Red Cross for use by volunteers and emergency healthcare providers in the area. Direct Relief has also sent a shipment of 1 million N95 masks for distribution to the areas affected by volcanic ash fall in the following days.

Typhoon mawar

Typhoon Mawar impacted Guam and the Northern Marianas Islands (CNMI) – both US Territories – over the past couple of days. Residents of Guam are dealing with damage, water supply issues and widespread power outages after experiencing hurricane-force winds and overwhelming rainfall over the past 36 hours. A typhoon warning for Guam and CNMI was lifted at 5 p.m. on Thursday, but strong winds persisted across much of the island chain.

Earlier, Typhoon Mawar had become 2023′s most intense storm. It was also stronger than any storm that formed in 2022. Despite significant wind damage and flooding, early reports by Guam’s local government indicate that no fatalities or major injuries occurred.

Direct Relief was in communication pre-landfall with the regional office of Administration of Strategic Preparedness & Response located in Guam, as well as the Public Health Departments in Guam and the Northern Marianas Islands, to offer currently available inventory. Direct Relief is also in the process of dispatching a hurricane preparedness pack to the Northern Marianas Islands for use on the islands of Rota, Tinian, and Saipan.

Direct Relief will continue to monitor the situation and respond as requested.

Material aid for Ukraine

Since Feb. 24, 2022, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.7 million pounds, or 1,350 tons, with more on the way.

Earlier this week, Ukrainian NGO Hromada Hub, supported by Direct Relief, conducted a field mission in the frontline city of Kherson under its “Food for body, food for soul” project to provide food aid and emergency psychological support to the civilian population. The team of psychologists was able to provide services to over 70 families.

Kherson is subjected to daily shelling, creating a huge need for psychological support for the 20% remaining of its pre-war population of around 285,000 people. At present, the city’s emergency services have only one psychologist available.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 5.6 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Kenya
• Uganda
• Romania
• Ghana
• El Salvador
• Liberia
• Nepal

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 530 shipments containing almost three tons of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• PanCare of Florida, Inc. Malone, Florida
• Clearwater Free Clinic, Florida
• Primary Health Services Center, Louisiana
• Alpha Omega Alliance Inc dba Riviera Beach Integrated Care, Florida
• Wellness Pointe, Texas
• Tarzana Treatment Center, California
• The Haley Center, Florida
• C. W. Williams Community Health Center Pharmacy, North Carolina
• Health Services Inc., Alabama
• Faith Family Medical Clinic, Tennessee

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2023, Direct Relief has delivered 7,259 shipments to 1,631 healthcare providers in 53 U.S. states and territories and 63 countries.

These shipments contained 235.7 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $762.1 million (wholesale), totaling 3.1 million lbs.

In The News

Gamers Without Borders raises $10m for humanitarian aid – Arab News: “Gamers Without Borders, the world’s largest charitable esports event, has concluded this year’s edition by raising a total of $10 million for its humanitarian aid partners. The money will go to Direct Relief, International Medical Corps, UNICEF, King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, the UN’s World Food Programme and the UNHCR.”

Direct Relief, Health ProMed and Fondita de Jesús Celebrate Successful Health Fair in Vieques – El Vocero: “Aware of the limitations of access to health services that the community of Vieques constantly faces, Direct Relief, Health ProMed and La Fondita de Jesús, held a health fair last Friday on the island municipality.”

The post Responding to Mexico Volcano Eruption, Typhoon Mawar, War in Ukraine appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 17.9 million defined daily doses of medication, including prenatal vitamins, personal care products, PPE, and more.

2023 Atlantic hurricane preparedness

As part of Direct Relief’s Hurricane Preparedness Program, established in 2006, the organization pre-positions hurricane preparedness packs each year in secure locations near vulnerable areas, providing partner facilities with the medications and medical supplies they’d need in case of a storm. Each is stocked with enough materials to treat 100 patients for 72 hours. The modules are provided free of charge.

Direct Relief started the program after Hurricane Katrina, and the organization began to preposition medical resources in storm-prone areas, giving medical professionals supplies and equipment should access be cut off due to storm impacts. The packs are often used to support care outside of clinic walls, in temporary or mobile facilities.

A larger version of the modules is shipped internationally and contains additional amounts of medical supplies. The modules were developed with experts from frontline clinics and health centers following Hurricane Katrina and refined since, and contain medical essentials for everything from first aid treatment to chronic disease management for diabetes, hypertension and asthma.

In preparation for the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, Direct Relief has begun shipping hurricane prep packs to international and domestic healthcare partners.

Internationally, a total of 20 hurricane preparedness packs will be shipped out to 15 countries. Eighteen packs will be distributed to the Northern Hemisphere in the coming days, and two will be delivered in November to Fiji and Vanuatu ahead of their cyclone season. The packs have already been staged in Puerto Rico, ready to deploy for responses in the Caribbean, as well as in Panama for post-disaster deployment through the Pan American Health Organization.

Domestically, a total of 70 micro hurricane preparedness packs will be shipped to partner organizations in 11 states and territories (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia). Eight micro hurricane preparedness packs have been staged in Puerto Rico for local distribution.

Material aid for Ukraine

Since Feb. 24, 2022, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.7 million pounds, or 1,350 tons, with more on the way.

Requested medications and supplies were received by Ukrainian Soul/Hospitable Hut this week and distributed to local healthcare providers. The shipment included thermometers, hygiene kits, and more.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 16 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Malawi
• Liberia
• Honduras
• Turkey
• Zambia
• Sri Lanka
• Ghana

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 595 shipments containing over four tons of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Welvista, South Carolina
• NC MedAssist, North Carolina
• ODA Primary Care Health Center, New York
• Jefferson Comprehensive Health Center, Inc., Mississippi
• Community Care Center, North Carolina
• St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy, Texas
• Health Care Center For The Homeless DBA Orange Blossom Family Health Center, Florida
• Acacia Medical Mission, Texas
• Hope Clinic of Garland Inc, Texas
• CommunityHealth, Illinois

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2023, Direct Relief has delivered 6,706 shipments to 1,595 healthcare providers in 53 U.S. states and territories and 61 countries.

These shipments contained 229.3 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $747.8 million (wholesale), totaling 3 million lbs.

In The News

Direct Relief ships 69 tons of medical supplies to Turkey since Feb. 5 earthquakes – KEYT: “It’s really important as this starts to recede in people’s memory … is still a crisis for over 8 million people in Syria,” said president and CEO Thomas Tighe of Direct Relief.

4GRxANTED Campaign Generates Millions of Doses of Generic Medicine for Patients in Need – Yahoo! Finance: “Direct Relief announced today that it received a donation of 2 million doses of generic medications for nonprofit healthcare providers in the U.S. and globally, thanks to the Association of Accessible Medicines’ (AAM) 4GRxANTED campaign.”

The post Preparing for Hurricane Season, Medical Relief Continues for Ukraine appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 18.5 million defined daily doses of medication, including antibiotics, personal care products, surgical supplies, and more.

continued medical support for syria & Turkey

On May 9, 69 tons of requested medicine and medical supplies arrived in Adana, Turkey, for distribution to Syria in response to February’s earthquakes. The shipment arrived via a Direct Relief-chartered 747 cargo plane and will be received by three on-the-ground organizations in Syria: the Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS), Independent Doctors Association, and Syria Relief and Development. This is the third fully loaded charter flight of medical aid Direct Relief has sent to Syria and Turkey since the earthquakes struck.

Also this week, shipments of requested medical supplies, including field medic packs and kits containing personal care items for displaced people, were received in Adana, Turkey, and distributed by Direct Relief staff to communities impacted by February’s earthquakes.

The medical aid was delivered to local healthcare providers in clinics and field hospitals providing critical medical care to patients in the affected region.

covering medical costs for Ukrainian refugees

This week, it was announced that over 310,000 Ukrainian refugees in Poland received funds for medications and other pharmacy purchases in the past year as part of the Health4Ukraine initiative. The announcement was made at an event in Lodz, Poland, which included U.S. Ambassador to Poland Mark Brzezinski, Pelion S.A. CEO Jacek Szwajcowski, Direct Relief CEO Thomas Tighe, and representatives of the Embassy of Ukraine, among others.

“I want to express my deepest gratitude to Pelion and Direct Relief for launching the Health4Ukraine initiative,” said Ambassador Brzezinski. “As we gather here today, we celebrate the tireless efforts and dedication of all the individuals and organizations involved in this noble cause through their unwavering commitment to alleviate suffering and providing aid to those in need. They have shown that when we come together as a global community, we can overcome even the most significant challenges.”

Health4Ukraine received 15 million USD in funding from Direct Relief last year.

Read more about Health4Ukraine’s impact here.

Monitoring cyclone mocha

Cyclone Mocha is forecast to make landfall this Sunday along the Bangladesh-Myanmar border. The India Meteorological Department estimates sustained winds of 100 to 115 mph at landfall. Myanmar and Bangladesh have deployed thousands of volunteers to the region and ordered evacuations from low-lying areas.

As of May 11, over 10,000 people have left for shelter, and more than two million people are expected to be exposed to the storm. The Bay of Bengal is highly prone to cyclones, and this storm comes weeks after the 15th anniversary of Cyclone Nargis, the deadliest natural disaster in Myanmar’s history.

Direct Relief is in communication with local healthcare partners across the region, including the Ministry of Health of Myanmar and HOPE Hospital in Bangladesh, ahead of the predicted landfall. In the last six months, Direct Relief has sent five shipments to Bangladesh, which included 10 tons worth of insulin, prescription drugs, and medical supplies, as well as a shipment of requested medications to Myanmar.

Direct Relief will continue to monitor the situation and respond as requested.

Material aid for Ukraine

Since Feb. 24, 2022, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.7 million pounds, or 1,350 tons, with more on the way.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 17.7 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Honduras
• Lebanon
• Syria
• Thailand
• Zimbabwe
• India
• Ghana

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 400 shipments containing almost three tons of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Delta Health Center, Mississippi
• Health Service Alliance, California
• Clearwater Free Clinic, Florida
• Korean Community Services, California
• Central Florida Health Care, Florida
• Welvista, South Carolina
• Grace Medical Home, Florida
• Brevard Health Alliance Rockledge, Florida
• Hands of Hope Medical Clinic, North Carolina
• Community Care Center, North Carolina

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2023, Direct Relief has delivered 6,092 shipments to 1,540 healthcare providers in 53 U.S. states and territories and 61 countries.

These shipments contained 211.6 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $684.7 million (wholesale), totaling 2.9 million lbs.

In The News

Santa Barbara humanitarian aid organizations respond to deadly East Africa cyclone – KCBX FM: Direct Relief’s Chris Alleway discusses the organization’s response to Cyclone Freddy in Malawi.

Teva Pharmaceuticals, collaborators team up to donate behavioral health meds to free clinics, pharmacies – Fierce Healthcare: “Launched last summer with humanitarian organization Direct Relief and the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics, the program is aimed at expanding medication access for medically underserved patients.”

Fighting continues in Sudan as more than 100,000 escape and hospitals shut down – NPR 1A: “Direct Relief’s Andrew Schroeder joined NPR’s 1A to discuss the current crisis in Sudan – refugees and migration, regional preparation for the influx of those on the move, and the state of/challenges facing humanitarian aid access into the country.“

Direct Relief helps efforts for refugees from war with Russia – Santa Barbara News-Press: “Goleta-based Direct Relief continues to serve on the front lines of aid efforts with medical supplies and resources in Poland for Ukrainian refugees who have fled the war-stricken country.”

The post Support Arrives for Turkey & Syria, Cyclone Mocha Response, and More appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 11 million defined daily doses of medication, including surgical supplies, personal care products, and more.

Puerto Rico, Caribbean Pediatric care

This week, the Pediatric Hospital Foundation inaugurated the first pediatric interventional radiology room in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean at the Dr. Antonio Ortíz University Pediatric Hospital of the Río Piedras Medical Center.

The radiology room is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to allow doctors to perform minimally invasive diagnostic and treatment procedures for pediatric patients.

Direct Relief contributed $1.6 million to the construction and founding of the project.

Learn more about the inauguration here.

Material aid for Ukraine

This week, NGO Ukrainian Soul distributed medications and healthcare supplies donated by Direct Relief to over eight local hospitals in collaboration with Ukraine’s Ministry of Health.

Since Feb. 24, 2022, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.7 million pounds, or 1,350 tons, with more on the way.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 10.7 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Senegal
• Honduras
• Ghana
• Mali
• Malawi
• India
• Dominican Republic

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 348 shipments containing over 1.4 tons of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Palmetto Health Council, Inc., Georgia
• Hospital Pediátrico Universitario Dr. Antonio Ortiz, Puerto Rico
• Pocatello Free Clinic, Idaho
• Health ProMed Foundation, Inc., Puerto Rico
• Faith Family Medical Clinic, Tennessee
• COSSMA, Inc., Puerto Rico
• Open Door Health Center, Florida
• Amistad Community Health Center, Texas
• Rising Suns Pharmacy, Ohio
• Fundacion Manos Juntas, Oklahoma

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2023, Direct Relief has delivered 5,439 shipments to 1,452 healthcare providers in 53 U.S. states and territories and 58 countries.

These shipments contained 186.9 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $567.4 million (wholesale), totaling 2.6 million lbs.

In The News

Real-Time Visibility for Humanitarian Supply Chain Management – Sensitech: “Our latest case study provides valuable insights on how you can leverage temperature monitoring to maintain product quality and prevent supply chain disruptions. Case Study: Helping Direct Relief improve its ability to provide essential medical aid to people in need.”

Guardian Games Cup – Bungie Foundation: “By contributing to an officially registered team throughout the Guardian Games Cup, you will be supporting two charities: Direct Relief and the International Rescue Committee.”

The post 11 Million Doses of Medication Distributed Over Past Week appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 6.6 million defined daily doses of medication, including antibiotics, prenatal vitamins, personal care products, and more.

housing healthcare workers in turkey

Recently, in collaboration with the Society for Critical Care Medicine (SCCM), Direct Relief purchased 10 shipping containers converted for housing to support healthcare workers in Turkey who had lost their homes after February’s earthquakes.

Two more were received and installed by the Turkish Society of Intensive Care in Malatya, Turkey.

Qlik Global Transformation Award 2023

This week, Direct Relief and the CrisisReady team received the Global Transformation award at the 2023 QlikWorld Conference. The award was given for the organization’s novel use of data analysis in response to the Ukraine war and refugee crisis.

Learn more about the 2023 Global Transformation Award here.

Material aid for Ukraine

This week, 16 Direct Relief field medic packs were received by Charity Fund “TAPS” in Dnipro, Ukraine, and distributed to local first responders.

Since Feb. 24, 2022, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.6 million pounds, or 1,300 tons, with more on the way.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 5.8 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Zambia
• El Salvador
• Bangladesh
• Cambodia
• India
• Ecuador
• Turkey
• Panama

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 347 shipments containing over two tons of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Welvista, South Carolina
• NC MedAssist, North Carolina
• St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy, Texas
• CommunityHealth, Illinois
• UNC Health Care, North Carolina
• Community Care Center, North Carolina
• Mission Arlington Medical Clinic, Texas
• Matthew 25, Inc., Indiana
• Volunteers in Medicine Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
• Palmetto Health Council, Inc., Georgia

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2023, Direct Relief has delivered 5,072 shipments to 1,415 healthcare providers in 53 U.S. states and territories and 57 countries.

These shipments contained 175.8 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $525 million (wholesale), totaling 2.5 million lbs.

In The News

Santa Barbara non-profit Direct Relief donates millions to help Ukrainians wounded by war – KCBX FM: “Direct Relief in Santa Barbara has provided medical aid to Ukraine for many years, which allowed them to quickly ramp up assistance when Russia invaded the country more than a year ago.”

Qlik Announces 2023 Global Transformation Awards – Qlik: “Qlik has been a central component of Direct Relief operations since 2015, helping to inform its teams and network on where to allocate staff, money and resources, turning information into aid. Most recently, Direct Relief leveraged Qlik to analyze anonymized metadata from social media on mobile devices to provide vital support to Ukrainian refugees fleeing the ongoing war.”

The post Supporting Health Workers in Turkey, First Responders in Ukraine appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 1.7 million defined daily doses of medication, including antibiotics, surgical supplies, personal care products, and more.

Supporting Rehabilitation in Ukraine

This week, Direct Relief sponsored the First National Rehabilitation Conference at the Unbroken Ukraine Rehabilitation Center in Lviv, Ukraine where it was announced that the organization will be investing an additional $10 million towards rehabilitation efforts for those injured in the conflict.

Direct Relief’s President and CEO, Thomas Tighe, attended the conference and also met with Ukraine’s Health Minister, Viktor Liashko, in Kyiv to discuss emerging needs, strengthen cooperation and mobilize additional humanitarian aid.

Read more about the recent announcement here.

Hemophilia Treatment in Lebanon

Recently, in coordination with local NGO, Anera, Direct Relief delivered 2,100 vials of hemophilia treatment to Lebanon, enough for 350 patients to receive treatment for the next six months.

“In Lebanon, hemophiliacs have confronted new challenges to managing their conditions in recent years. The medical and pharmaceutical sectors have been badly shaken by the nation’s economic collapse. The crisis has affected access to essential medications for patients with chronic conditions, affecting all ages and communities,” states Anera’s latest insight on the situation in Lebanon.

Read more about this donation here.

Material aid for Ukraine

Since Feb. 24, 2022, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.6 million pounds, or 1,300 tons, with more on the way.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 1.3 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Vietnam
• Lebanon
• Dominican Republic
• Nigeria
• Bahamas
• Turkey
• Haiti

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 417 shipments containing over five tons of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Open Door Health Center, Florida
• Agape Clinic, Texas
• Tender Care Community Clinic Inc., California
• HealthNet of Rock County, Inc., Wisconsin
• NC MedAssist, North Carolina
• Family Health Services, Idaho
• Guadalupe Clinic, Kansas
• Community Health of East Tennessee, Inc., Tennessee
• Clearwater Free Clinic, Florida
• Scarsdale Family Health Center, Texas

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2023, Direct Relief has delivered 4,708 shipments to 1,345 healthcare providers in 53 U.S. states and territories and 54 countries.

These shipments contained 169.3 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $510.6 million (wholesale), totaling 2.4 million lbs.

In The News

U.S. Humanitarian Organization to Provide Ukraine with $10M for Rehabilitation Development – Ukrinform: “According to Tighe, Direct Relief will continue to provide support to Ukraine as long as it takes. It is also planned to allocate an additional $10 million dollars for the development of rehabilitation assistance.”

“Dobrobut” Continues Program of Free Transfer of Medicines for Cancer Patients – Ukraine Open for Business: “Annually experts of “Dobrobut” carry out more than 7000 operations. The network has over 2,800 employees. Collaborates with a number of international charities Direct Relief, Children of War Foundation, International Medical Corps and the University of Miami Global Institute, as well as the Dobrobut Foundation, a charitable foundation founded by the clinic.”

Unbroken rehabilitation center opens on basis of reconstructed polyclinic building in Lviv – Interfax-Ukraine: “The project was implemented by the Ministry of Health on the basis of the First Medical Association of Lviv. The equipment for the halls was provided by the Direct Relief international foundation and the Swiss Embassy in Ukraine.”

The post Bolstering Support in Ukraine, Providing Aid in Lebanon appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 8.8 million defined daily doses of medication, including antibiotics, nutritionals, trauma care supplies, and more.

Turkey-Syria Earthquake Response

This week, 80 tons of requested medical aid arrived in Turkey via Direct Relief chartered FedEx MD-11 cargo aircraft. The emergency supplies and medications were received by The Ministry of Health of Turkey, which will distribute the supplies to medical facilities located in the most heavily impacted provinces of Hatay, Adiyaman, Kahramanmaras, Malatya, and Gaziantep.

With this latest infusion of support to the recovering region, Direct Relief has provided more than 215 tons of medical aid to Turkey in response to the earthquakes, from emergency medic packs — which contain items to address trauma, including tourniquets and wound dressings — to diabetes and cancer medications.

Read more about this shipment here.

Local groups have begun distributing the requested medical supplies to healthcare clinics and hospitals throughout the country.

Missouri Tornado Response

On Wednesday, April 5, an early morning tornado caused widespread damage in Bollinger County, Missouri. Five people have been reported dead, with multiple additional roadway injuries reported by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

In response, Direct Relief contacted the Missouri Primary Care Association, the Missouri Association of Free Clinics, and National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) to extend support and assistance. Direct Relief also sent an alert message to all health center and clinic partners in Missouri to offer available inventory.

So far, Direct Relief has shipped 150 Emergency Family Hygiene Kits, water purification tablets, and additional nutritional products to Samaritan Regional Health Clinic located in Cape Girardeau, Missouri.

The organization is assessing further needs and will respond as requested.

Material aid for Ukraine

This coming week, Direct Relief will be sponsoring a conference of rehabilitation groups in Lviv, Ukraine, in coordination with the Ukrainian organization, Unbroken. The forum will bring together Ukrainian rehabilitation specialists with an emphasis in technology and innovation.

Since Feb. 24, 2022, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.6 million pounds, or 1,300 tons, with more on the way.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 9.5 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Fiji
• Lebanon
• India
• Democratic Republic of Congo
• Peru
• Turkey
• Mexico

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 389 shipments containing over five tons of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Jefferson Comprehensive Health Center, Inc., Mississippi
• Community Care Center, North Carolina
• Bethesda Health Clinic, Texas
• A+ Counseling Center and A+ Health Center, Maryland
• Free Clinic of Meridian, Inc., Mississippi
• Health Brigade, Virginia
• Washington State Department of Health, Washington
• Whatley Health Services, Inc., Alabama
• CCI – Takoma Park, Maryland
• G A Carmichael FHC, Mississippi

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2023, Direct Relief has delivered 4,280 shipments to 1,331 healthcare providers in 53 U.S. states and territories and 52 countries.

These shipments contained 167.6 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $473 million (wholesale), totaling 2.4 million lbs.

In The News

Eighty Tons of Medical Support Arrives in Turkey via FedEx Charter Flight – Yahoo! Finance: “Aid aboard the FedEx MD-11 cargo aircraft included specifically requested antibiotics, respiratory medications, anti-seizure therapies, vitamins for children and adults, personal protective equipment, hygiene items, and more.”

The post Critical Aid Continues to Arrive in Turkey, Missouri Tornado Response appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 10.4 million defined daily doses of medication, including insulin, antibiotics, overdose-reversing meds, and more.

Turkey-Syria Earthquake Response

Eighty tons of medical aid has been staged for a charter flight to Turkey next week, the latest infusion of support for the region recovering from last month’s catastrophic earthquakes.

Sinan Kuzum, Turkey’s Consul-General in Los Angeles, visited Direct Relief’s Santa Barbara, California, warehouse this week before the shipment departed. Kuzum received a tour of Direct Relief’s warehouse and met with staff for a briefing on the organization’s earthquake response.

Learn more about the 80-ton chartered flight here.

Aid Arrives in Syria After Charter

Also, this week, the Independent Doctors Association and Syrian American Medical Society in Syria received shipments of requested medications and supplies donated by Direct Relief that were part of a 75-ton charter flight of medical aid. The contents will be distributed to local patients in communities recently impacted by the destructive earthquakes.

Mississippi, Alabama tornado response

In response to several devastating tornadoes this past weekend, Direct Relief has sent or is preparing to send 19 shipments of emergency medicines and medical supplies in response to requests from health centers in Mississippi and Alabama. Direct Relief staff anticipates further requests for shipments over the next few days.

Additionally, a solar power unit from Footprint Project supplied electricity to a temporary clinic set up by Delta Health Center in Rolling Fork, Mississippi, after tornadoes devastated the clinic’s health facility. Direct Relief supported the Footprint Project with a $250k emergency operating grant to deploy alternative power solutions after disasters.

Direct Relief’s Ruth Smarinsky, PharmD, Receives Prestigious Award

Ruth Arnold Smarinsky, PharmD, Senior Advisor for Direct Relief, was awarded the Hugo H. Schaefer Award this week by the American Pharmacists Association. The award recognizes those who “have made outstanding contributions to society, the professional of pharmacy, and the American Pharmacists Association.” Smarinksy has devoted her career to providing access to quality pharmaceutical care for underserved patients.

Since joining Direct Relief, Smarinsky has been intimately involved in developing multiple programs, including hurricane preparedness kits, naloxone distribution, and more. Learn more about the award here.

Material aid for Ukraine

This week, requested medications and supplies were received by several groups, including Kharkiv Renovation Fund and distributed to local healthcare providers.

Since Feb. 24, 2022, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.6 million pounds, or 1,300 tons, with more on the way.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 9.5 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Syria
• Lebanon
• India
• Sri Lanka
• Armenia
• Guatemala
• Turkey
• Mexico

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 389 shipments containing over 5 tons of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Health Services Inc., Alabama
• Mission Arlington Medical Clinic, Texas
• North Jefferson County Clinic Pharmacy, Texas
• Grace Medical Home, Florida
• Utah Naloxone – Andy’s, Utah
• St. Michael’s Medical Clinic, Alabama
• Homestead Community Health Center, Florida
• Good Samaritan Clinic, Alabama
• Centro San Vicente, Texas
• St. Vincent De Paul Clinic, Arizona

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2023, Direct Relief has delivered 3,789 shipments to 1,273 healthcare providers in 53 U.S. states and territories and 52 countries.

These shipments contained 154.9 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $416.4 million (wholesale), totaling 2.2 million lbs.

In The News

Yemen Aid to Open Two Oxygen Plants in Yemen in Partnership with Direct Relief – YemenOnline: “Yemen Aid, a Yemeni-American humanitarian organization that responds to the crisis in Yemen, announced that they had received a grant from Direct Relief to support Yemen’s strained limited oxygen supply by building two oxygen plants in two needed provinces in Yemen.”

The post Solar Support for Mississippi Clinics, Continued Earthquake Relief appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 21.5 million defined daily doses of medication, including antibiotics, prenatal vitamins, diabetes management medications and supplies, trauma care supplies, and more.

Turkey-Syria Earthquake Response

Through assessments and communication with medical organizations operating in the impacted areas of the recent earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, Direct Relief has learned that current needs are antibiotics, wound care supplies, prosthetics, medication for diabetes, hypertension, cancer, maternal/pediatric health, cholera treatment, mental health trauma care, and support for doctors and other healthcare staff working and volunteering to provide medical care in the affected regions.

In response, Direct Relief is coordinating its largest shipment to Syria to date, chartering a Boeing 777 cargo plane to transport 75 tons of requested medications and supplies to Syria this weekend. The charter departs from Los Angeles on Sunday, March 26, and will arrive in Turkey the following day. Upon arrival and customs clearance, the pallets will be trucked to the Syrian border and transported by UN vehicles for distribution to Aleppo and Idleb governorates. The shipment includes medications for diabetes and hypertension, antibiotics, a cholera treatment kit (containing medications and supplies to treat up to 120 severe cases or 100 mild cases), adult and children’s vitamins, pain relievers, toothpaste, wound care supplies, orthopedic braces, gloves, and more.

A second cargo plane charter has been scheduled for the first week in April, with supplies heading to support recovery efforts in Turkey through the Ministry of Health.

California storm response

The latest storm in a series of over a dozen atmospheric rivers moved through California this week, bringing more rain to areas already experiencing flooding. In response, Direct Relief has been supporting community groups and healthcare facilities in flood-impacted areas across the state.

This week, Emergency Health Kits departed Direct Relief’s warehouse in Santa Barbara today for Tule River Indian Health Center in Porterville, California. The center is assisting those affected and displaced by destructive flooding in the area.

Read more about Direct Relief’s response to recent California storms here.

Material aid for Ukraine

Several NGOs focused on health in Ukraine received medical aid from Direct Relief over the past seven days, including Kharkiv Renovation Fund and AICM, which received critical medications and emergency medical field packs.

Since Feb. 24, 2022, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.6 million pounds, or 1,300 tons, with more on the way.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 20.9 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Syria
• Ghana
• Armenia
• Sri Lanka
• Honduras
• Burkina Faso
• Turkey
• El Salvador
• Kenya

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 481 shipments containing over 28 tons of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Agape Clinic, Texas
• Lifecycles Health Services, Inc., New Jersey
• Faith Family Medical Clinic, Tennessee
• Bethesda Health Clinic, Texas
• Community Care Center, North Carolina
• Fort Ross Volunteer Fire Department, California
• Jefferson Comprehensive Health Center, Inc., Mississippi
• Eunice Community Health Center, Louisiana
• Cloverdale Citizens Emergency Response Team, California
• NOTEP, Louisiana

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2023, Direct Relief has delivered 3,374 shipments to 1,229 healthcare providers in 53 U.S. states and territories and 52 countries.

These shipments contained 154.8 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $361.5 million (wholesale), totaling 2 million lbs.

In The News

Startup Curae Pharma360 partners with Direct Relief to distribute free contraceptives to safety-net clinics – Fierce Healthcare: “Curae Pharma360, a pharma startup focused on women’s health, has teamed up with Direct Relief to distribute emergency contraception to safety-net clinics.”

The post Preparing Air Charter Shipments for Syria and Turkey, California Flood Relief appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 13.5 million defined daily doses of medication, including antibiotics, emergency medical backpacks, personal care products, and more.

Turkey-Syria Earthquake Response

Direct Relief’s response to recent earthquakes in Turkey and Syria has continued, and more than 109 tons of medicine and supplies have been distributed or are being prepared to ship to the region, including antibiotics, wound care dressings, protective gear, and other requested medical resources.

This week, 500 emergency medical packs departed Direct Relief’s warehouse in Santa Barbara, California, for Turkey’s Ministry of Health Crisis Command Center. The backpacks will be distributed to first responders providing critical aid to patients after recent earthquakes.

Groups supported with medical aid include Turkey’s Ministry of Health, Ahbap, AKUT, Syrian American Medical Society, Independent Doctor’s Association, and Syrian Relief and Development.

In addition to continuous deployments of medical aid, Direct Relief is infusing cash support to local organizations scaling up to meet the needs of the moment. More than $2.5 million in financial aid has been committed.

Among the groups that received funding is the Turkish Renal Disaster Task Force, which used funds from Direct Relief to secure containerized housing for specialized medical teams cycling into Adiyaman, Hatay, and Kahramanmaras to provide medical care for crush wounds and resulting kidney issues that occur after acute traumas.

Direct Relief approved a similar project for the Turkish Society of Intensive Care so health providers can access safe housing while they provide emergency care. Direct Relief has committed $70,000 to purchase 14 units of temporary medical staff shelter in Turkey so far.

Read more about the latest earthquake response updates here.

Supporting cold-chain in Nepal

A new cold storage building funded by Direct Relief is up and running in Kathmandu, Nepal. The earthquake-resilient building houses a 440-square-foot walk-in freezer, two 216-square-foot walk-in coolers, and a backup diesel generator capable of powering all three units during a power outage.

With support from One Heart Worldwide, the new building will increase Nepal’s cold storage capacity of critical medications and vaccines.

Cyclone preparation in Vanuatu

This week, Direct Relief’s hurricane prep module arrived in Vanuatu to support the healthcare system before an impending cyclone impacted the region.

Each module is stocked with enough materials to treat 100 patients for 72 hours and contains supplies to treat issues ranging from trauma injuries to chronic conditions. The modules are provided free of charge, and are provided as part of Direct Relief’s hurricane preparedness program, which has grown to become the largest in the U.S., supporting 50 partners organizations throughout the U.S. Gulf Coast and Eastern seaboard, as well as in other hurricane- and cylone-prone areas throughout the world.

Material aid for Ukraine

This week, TAPS Ukraine delivered two Direct Relief field medic backpacks to the First Volunteer Mobile Hospital, which has been operating since 2014 in conflict zones in Ukraine. TAPS Ukraine has so far received 18 medical backpacks for redistribution to hospitals and clinics.

Since Feb. 24, 2022, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.5 million pounds, or 1,250 tons, with more on the way.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 13 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Turkey
• Iraq
• Bangladesh
• Belarus
• Senegal
• Kenya
• Pakistan
• Lebanon
• Dominican Republic

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 255 shipments containing 481,740 doses of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Palmetto Health Council, Inc., Georgia
• Volunteers in Medicine, Florida
• Bread of Healing Clinic, Wisconsin
• Antlers First Baptist Church Free Clinic, Oklahoma
• The Pic Place, Colorado
• Light of the World Clinic, Florida
• Good News Care Center, Florida
• Agape Clinic, Texas
• Community Care Center, North Carolina
• Good Samaritan Clinic, Florida

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2023, Direct Relief has delivered 2,358 shipments to 1,015 healthcare providers in 52 U.S. states and territories and 49 countries.

These shipments contained 112.6 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $280.5 million (wholesale), totaling 1.3 million lbs.

In The News

• Wildfire Threat to Inpatient Health Care Facilities in California, 2022 – The American Journal of Public Health: Direct Relief’s Andrew Schroeder co-authored this publication, which discusses the implications of wildfires on California inpatient health care facilities.
• Direct Relief and Meta Cooperation to Promote Medical Preparedness for Disasters – BusinessNews: “Direct Relief, in partnership with Data for Good and Government and Social Impact in Meta, recently released the results of an online campaign aimed at promoting the preparedness of medicines and medical records for emergencies.”
• Support the Turkey-Syria earthquake relief efforts by picking up this gaming bundle – Mashable: “100% of the proceeds of this bundle will support Direct Relief, International Medical Corps, and Save the Children.”

The post Cold-Chain Storage in Nepal, Field Medic Packs for Turkey, and More appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 14.4 million defined daily doses of medication, including insulin, antibiotics, surgical supplies, overdose-reversing medications, prenatal vitamins, and more.

Supporting Local Storm Recovery

Starting this week, Direct Relief is hosting the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center in response to the recent winter storms and floods. The center is a designated location for individuals and families who have disaster-caused needs to apply for FEMA, California, & other assistance. The center will be open for approximately 30 days. Spanish, ASL and Mixteco interpreter services are available.

Air Quality Preparation

This week, Direct Relief provided 50,000 N95 masks to UC Santa Barbara’s Campus Health Services and Campus Emergency Management in preparation for wildfire and other air quality-impacting events.

Monitoring Texas Storm Impacts

A series of severe winter storms are sweeping across the country this week, already claiming the lives of six individuals as of Wednesday. Ice storms have also caused widespread power outages throughout Texas where more than 300,000 homes and businesses are currently without power.

Direct Relief is actively monitoring the current conditions across the country and is in contact with the Texas Association of Community Health Centers and the Texas Association of Charitable Clinics to assess needs and gather additional information about conditions within the impacted communities.

Read more about severe winter weather impacts on Texas here.

Material Support for Ukraine

Charity Fund Modern Village and Town recently distributed Direct Relief-donated Baxter medications to medical institutions in Kyiv, Ukraine. Since the conflict began in February 2022, Charity Fund Modern Village and Town has distributed over 158 tons of medical products from Direct Relief.

Since Feb. 24, 2022, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.4 million pounds, or 1,200 tons, with more on the way.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 14.3 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Democratic Republic of Congo
• Pakistan
• India
• Liberia
• New Guinea
• Somaliland
• Ghana

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 178 shipments containing 160,616 doses of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• The Health Hut, Louisiana
• Safer Alternatives through Networking & Education (SANE) – Clinic Site, California
• Start Corporation (CHC), Louisiana
• Clinica Esperanza, Rhode Island
• Casey Health Center, Virginia
• Phoenix Allies for Community Health, Arizona
• Welvista, South Carolina
• New Song Health Center dba Bolinbrook Christian Health Center, Illinois
• Harm Reduction Services, California

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2023, Direct Relief has delivered 1,315 shipments to 792 healthcare providers in 50 U.S. states and territories and 37 countries.

These shipments contained 42 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $130.1 million (wholesale), totaling 650,539 lbs.

In The News

• Holland America passengers from San Diego and around the world raise $450K for medical aid in Ukraine – The San Diego Union-Tribune: “The cruise line presented Direct Relief with a check in San Diego after a monthslong fundraising campaign in which passengers participated in onboard walks to raise money for medical supplies.”
• Find Help Locally – County of Santa Barbara: “Disaster Recovery Centers/Local Assistance Centers are open to support residents with January 2023 winter storm long term rebuilding and recovery. Residents can get help applying for federal assistance and disaster loans, update applications and learn about other resources that are available.”

The post Supporting and Preparing Communities Locally, Globally appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 13.1 million defined daily doses of medication, including antibiotics, surgical supplies, PPE, prenatal vitamins, and more.

equipping local search and rescue

A specialized vehicle for Santa Barbara County Search and Rescue was purchased by Direct Relief for use during emergency response and rescue efforts. Direct Relief is launching a fund to ensure search and rescue groups across the state, most of whom are volunteer and pay for their own equipment, have what they need to respond to future emergencies.

Read more about the fund established by Direct Relief to support search and rescue efforts.

Emergency supply preparation

This week, community volunteers and Direct Relief staff assembled 5,000 personal care packs at Direct Relief’s warehouse in Santa Barbara, California. The packs contain soap, hygiene products, and more, and were assembled in preparation for future emergencies.

Material Support for Ukraine

Earlier this week, Charity Fund Modern Village and Town delivered medicines to the Center of Pediatric Cardiology in Kyiv. These products, donated by Direct Relief, will be used to treat both children and adults with severe heart issues.

Since Feb. 24, 2022, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.4 million pounds, or 1,200 tons, with more on the way.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 12.1 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Malawi
• Uganda
• Liberia
• Colombia
• Guatemala
• Sierra Leone
• Armenia

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 237 shipments containing 910,028 doses of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Welvista, South Carolina
• Community Health & Emergency Services, Inc, Illinois
• Agape Clinic, Texas
• Health Care Center For The Homeless DBA Orange Blossom Family Health Center, Florida
• Virginia Harm Reduction Coalition, Virginia
• Marjorie Wilson, Idaho
• Phoenix Allies for Community Health, Arizona
• Mission Arlington Medical Clinic, Texas
• Program for Health Care to Underserved Populations Birmingham Free Clinic, Pennsylvania

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2023, Direct Relief has delivered 1,100 shipments to 701 healthcare providers in 50 U.S. states and territories and 28 countries.

These shipments contained 27.5 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $83.5 million (wholesale), totaling 489,348 lbs.

in the news

• How to help victims of California’s storms – PBS News Hour: “In Santa Barbara County, Thomas Tighe, the CEO of Direct Relief, one of the world’s largest nonprofit donors of medications and health supplies, said he is thankful that the latest natural disaster to hit California hasn’t strained medical resources. Instead, his organization has been able to shift its priorities, including financing the purchase of a $350,000 high-water rescue vehicle, which will serve in the Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and Ventura tri-county area, as well as directly funding local cleanup and recovery operations, including the Santa Barbara Bucket Brigade.”
• New disaster recover centers opening in Santa Barbara County – KCLU: “Two disaster recovery centers are opening this weekend in Santa Barbara County to help people hard hit by the January 9^th storm. One of the centers will be at the offices of the non-profit agency Direct Relief in Santa Barbara, and the other will be at Allan Hancock College in Santa Maria. They will open at noon on Saturday.”
• Lilly Supports Direct Relief’s Efforts To Expand Access to Medicines by Improving Cold Chain Capacity – Yahoo! Finance: “Eli Lilly and Company and Direct Relief today announced a new initiative to expand access to medicines in low- and middle-income countries by boosting cold chain capacity in 17 countries.”

The post Supporting Search and Rescue Efforts, Preparing for Future Emergencies appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 11.2 million defined daily doses of medication, including antibiotics, prenatals, nutritionals, PPE and more.

U.S. Storm response

This week, multiple shipments of medical aid departing Direct Relief’s warehouse to equip and assist first responders and medical providers in Alabama and California following multiple destructive storms. Tornadoes in Alabama and Georgia left at least nine people dead and thousands of homes destroyed.

Direct Relief’s response to California rainstorms continues as communities recover from flooding and slides. Northern California was especially impacted, and multiple shipments to the region that included emergency medical backpacks, overdose-reversing naloxone, personal care items for displaced people, and more.

Read more about this week’s response to storms across the country here.

Pakistan Flood Recovery

Pakistan experienced deadly flooding from June through October 2022, and Direct Relief continues to provide support to the recovering country. Marafie Foundation is distributing medications and supplies donated by Direct Relief to flood victims across the Sindh region. One of the worst-hit provinces, Sindh still has thousands of people living in open areas, tents, and makeshift homes, with stagnant water present in many areas.

The 5-pallet shipment included cardiovascular drugs, local anesthetics, PPE, and tents distributed to a medical center and two hospitals impacted by the devastating flooding.

Further support to Pakistan includes an upcoming 39-pallet shipment of donated medications to Baqai Institute of Diabetology & Endocrinology (BIDE). BIDE, in connection with Baqai Medical University, has taken on an expanded role in supporting people impacted by floods throughout the country.

Material Support for Ukraine

This week, Direct Relief delivered emergency medical supplies and medications to healthcare providers in Ukraine, including antibiotics, insulin supplies, and PPE.

Since Feb. 24, 2022, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.4 million pounds, or 1,200 tons, with more on the way.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 9.9 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Honduras
• Dominican Republic
• Bangladesh
• Sierra Leone
• India
• Syria
• Nicaragua

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 343 shipments containing 1.3 million doses of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Rural Health Medical Program, Inc., Alabama
• NC MedAssist, North Carolina
• Society of St. Vincent de Paul dba St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy, Texas
• CommunityHealth, Illinois
• UNC Health Care, North Carolina
• Safer Alternatives through Networking & Education (SANE) – Clinic Site, California
• Clinica Esperanza, Rhode Island
• Volunteers in Medicine Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
• Family Health Clinic of Monon, Indiana

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2023, Direct Relief has delivered 844 shipments to 601 healthcare providers in 43 U.S. states and territories and 21 countries.

These shipments contained 12.4 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $46.6 million (wholesale), totaling 363,552 lbs.

in the news

• Rural Health gets $2M in donated medications for tornado victims – Selma Sun: “The medications came from support group Direct Relief out of California and will be given out to low-income and uninsured patients of Rural Health and others through partnerships with doctors and specialists in Dallas County, said Rural Health CEO Keshee Dozier-Smith on Thursday.”
• Direct Relief sends medical aid to California storm-affected health facilities – KEYT: “Direct Relief hasn’t stopped responding across California since last week’s devastating rainstorms.”

The post 11.2 Million Doses of Medication Depart for the U.S., Ukraine, and 14 Other Countries appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 3.6 million defined daily doses of medication, including insulin, inhalers, antibiotics, asthma medications and more.

California Storm response

This past week, California has experienced destructive flooding in the aftermath of recent storms in the region. At least 19 people have been killed statewide due to the series of storms since Jan. 1, and thousands evacuated under threats from flash flooding and landslides.

Direct Relief is making available more than $100 million in medicine and medical supplies from its inventory to support relief and recovery efforts in communities affected by the storms.

In preparation for the arrival of a potential second storm this coming weekend, Direct Relief joined the Santa Barbara Bucket Brigade and Habitat for Humanity of Southern Santa Barbara County on Thursday to bag and load sandbags for Montecito community members. Direct Relief is also committing financial and staff support to bolster clean-up efforts in the area after the recent flooding.

Northern California was especially impacted by last week’s storms. In response, Direct Relief delivered emergency medical backpacks to Monterey Fire, as well as other healthcare clinics in the area on Friday. The backpacks contain critical essentials, including trauma care products, PPE, tourniquets and more to treat patients and evacuees. The organization is also providing heavy equipment for search and rescue efforts.

Direct Relief will continue to monitor the situation and respond accordingly, as a second storm is expected to hit the state this weekend.

Alabama tornadoes

More than a dozen tornadoes touched down in Alabama on Thursday, with a very large tornado causing ‘significant damage’ in and around the City of Selma, according to the city’s mayor. More than 35 million people in the Southeast and the Ohio Valley – from Louisiana eastward to the Carolinas and from Kentucky south to the Gulf Coast – are under some level of threat for severe storms Thursday that could include damaging wind gusts and tornadoes. More than 118,000 individuals in Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee were without power as of Thursday afternoon.

Direct Relief has reached out to state-level organizations in Alabama, including the Alabama Primary Care Association and the Alabama Association of Free & Charitable Clinics. The organization’s current inventory was shared with both organizations. Direct Relief will reach out to additional health centers and clinics to offer assistance as needs are made known.

Material Support for Ukraine

Also this week, Association Іnternationale de Сoopération Médicale – Ukraine (AICM) and TAPS Ukraine each received an ambulance donated by Direct Relief. The vehicles will soon be operational in Ukraine, providing critical healthcare services to patients in need.

Since Feb. 24, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.3 million pounds, or 1,150 tons, with more on the way.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 3.2 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Sierra Leone
• Burkina Faso
• Democratic Republic of Congo
• India
• Pakistan
• Haiti
• Panama

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 319 shipments containing 458,401 doses of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Open Arms Health Clinic, Texas
• The Damien Center, Indiana
• St. Vincent de Paul Charitable Pharmacy, Ohio
• Smoky Mountain Harm Reduction, North Carolina
• North Jefferson County Clinic Pharmacy, Texas
• Mission of Mercy, Maryland
• Horizons Health Coastal Horizons Center, Inc., North Carolina
• Washington State Department of Health, Washington
• San Francisco Free Clinic, California

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2023, Direct Relief has delivered 473 shipments to 394 healthcare providers in 43 U.S. states and territories and 10 countries.

These shipments contained 3.9 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $15.3 million (wholesale), totaling 136,097 lbs.

in the news

• Severe Weather is Wreaking Havoc Across California – NPR 1A: Direct Relief’s President & CEO, Thomas Tighe, joined Celeste Headlee to discuss the implications of recent storms that have hit California.
• Santa Barbara Digs Out, Cleans Up as Next Storm Heads In – Santa Barbara Independent: Powell said at least 100 homes in Montecito had suffered some flood or mud damage, and that the volunteers had loaded up about 5,000-6,000 sandbags and sent them out. They’d formed a partnership with Direct Relief and Habitat for Humanity after Santa Barbara City Councilmember Oscar Gutierrez called to ask for help. 

The post California, U.S. Storm Response Continues appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 793,751 defined daily doses of medication, including insulin, surgical supplies, personal care products and more.

U.S. Storms

This past week, a series of severe storm systems moved over the United States, including Direct Relief’s home state of California. Northern California communities were particularly impacted, with power outages, infrastructure damage, and even several levee breaches.

Direct Relief immediately offered its medical inventory to health facilities across California and other states experiencing weather-related impacts. On Wednesday, Direct Relief staff were on hand in Montecito, California, to assist with sandbag distribution for residents concerned with flooding.

Multiple shipments departed Direct Relief’s warehouse on Thursday, including the shipment of 400 personal care kits for Alameda County Health Care for the Homeless in Northern California. The kits contain items like soap, shampoo, and dental hygiene supplies.

Read more about the latest shipments departing in response to this week’s storms here.

Material Support for Ukraine

Since Feb. 24, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.3 million pounds, or 1,150 tons, with more on the way.

Recently critical supplies have been delivered to Ukraine by Direct Relief, including cancer medications, emergency medical backpacks, cardiovascular drugs, and more.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 529,944 defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Uganda
• Sri Lanka
• Vanuatu
• India
• Romania
• Haiti

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 291 shipments containing 263,806 doses of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• HealthNet of Rock County, Inc., Wisconsin
• Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative Pharmacy, Mississippi
• Guadalupe Clinic, Kansas
• Morton Comprehensive Health Services, Oklahoma
• Harm Reduction Ohio, Ohio
• Arkansas Harm Reduction Project, Arkansas
• Atlanta Harm Reduction Coalition, Georgia
• Trac-B Exchange, Nevada
• Belmont Health Center, California

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2023, Direct Relief has delivered 137 shipments to 118 healthcare providers in 24 U.S. states and territories and one country.

These shipments contained 211,010 defined daily doses of medication valued at $1.8 million (wholesale), totaling 2,520 lbs.

in the news

• Direct Relief helps Montecito residents fill sandbags – Yahoo! News: “Direct Relief’s Emergency Response Team stopped by Manning Park in Montecito to help residents fill sandbags. Crews also assisted community members by loading the sandbags into their vehicles.”
• World Health Organization Ukraine Situation Report: “Last week World Health Organization delivered insulin and pharmaceutical refrigeration equipment to medical facilities in Kherson. The medical supplies were funded by the Federal Ministry of Health of Germany, the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), Direct Relief, and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.”
• Direct Relief Grants $7.9M in Medical Aid to Ukraine – Santa Barbara Independent: “Direct Relief, a humanitarian charity operating out of Santa Barbara, has been particularly busy this month, announcing that its recent initiatives include granting $7.9 million in cash aid to help Ukrainians who’ve suffered injuries or trauma in the war access medical care and rehabilitation services.”

The post Responding to U.S. Storms, Winter in Ukraine appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 13.3 million defined daily doses of medication, including insulin, personal care products, prenatal vitamins, cancer medications and more.

Winter Storm Elliott

This past week, the Buffalo area experienced over 36 straight hours of Hurricane Category 1 force winds, combined with over 4 feet of snow and temperatures below zero. The number of deaths, particularly among those experiencing homelessness, is grievous.

In response, Direct Relief immediately dispatched five emergency field medic packs to Jericho Road Community Health Center in Buffalo, NY.

Direct Relief is in communication with New York’s primary care association for community clinics and health centers, the Community Health Care Association of New York State (CHCANYS), and has offered its inventory of vital medicines and supplies.

Material Support for Ukraine

This week, 39 pallets of emergency medical aid were shipped to Ukraine from Direct Relief’s warehouse in Santa Barbara, California. The delivery contains cardiovascular medications, oncology drugs, anti-diabetes meds, vitamins, field medic packs and more. The materials will be distributed over the coming weeks to healthcare clinics and hospitals treating patients impacted by the war.

Since Feb. 24, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.3 million pounds, or 1,150 tons, with more on the way.

In total, Direct Relief has deployed more than 221.3 million defined daily doses, $23.3 million in financial assistance, and $702.7 million in material aid assistance to Ukraine since the war broke out.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 12.6 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Uganda
• Honduras
• Vanuatu
• India
• Mexico
• Malawi
• Republic of North Macedonia

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 145 shipments containing 698,105 doses of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Wesley Community and Health Centers, Arizona
• Greater Killeen Free Clinic, Texas
• Partnership Health Center, Georgia
• New Song Health Center dba Bolingbrook Christian Health Center, Illinois
• St. Michael’s Medical Clinic, Alabama
• Utah Naloxone – Andy’s, Utah
• Open Arms Clinic, Georgia
• Santa Clara County, California
• Volunteers in Medicine Hilton Head Island, South

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2022, Direct Relief has delivered 19.8K shipments to 2,301 healthcare providers in 53 U.S. states and territories and 92 countries.

These shipments contained 567.3 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $1.9 billion (wholesale), totaling 11.3 million lbs.

in the news

• Ask Amy: My annual charity roundup – Washington Post: Direct Relief’s total cash aid for Ukraine and Ukrainians has reached almost $30 million. This aid goes directly to local medical and mental health service organizations in Ukraine and bolsters their donated supply of material aid of medical supplies and services.
• Steve Lopez: Looking to make last-minute charitable donations? Tips from Flea, Rick Caruso and others – Los Angeles Times: Former L.A. City Councilmember Ruth Galanter said she supports a popular local charity — the L.A. Regional Food Bank, which keeps thousands of people from going hungry each year. But two of her favorite causes are Tostan, a Senegal-based human rights organization “with village-driven education programs,” and Direct Relief, which provides medical resources around the world and just last week announced a nearly $8-million medical aid package for Ukraine.
• Dubroff: Direct Relief digs deep for funds to help Ukraine endure – Pacific Coast Business Times: On a frigid afternoon in mid-December, Brent Baldwin was a long way from his comfortable office at the Santa Barbara headquarters of Direct Relief. Baldwin, who is senior counsel in charge of legal and regulatory affairs at the global charity, was in Lviv, Ukraine with a team led by CEO Thomas Tighe.
• New Efforts to Aid Those With Diabetes in Humanitarian Crises – Medscape: “Action in Ukraine has been based on communication, partnership, and management,” Vlasenko said, crediting several groups for their assistance including “the IDF, the Ukrainian Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization, pharmaceutical companies, Direct Relief, governments of other countries, IDF member associations, nongovernmental associations, patient organizations…and many individuals,” she noted.

The post Responding to Winter Storm Elliott, War in Ukraine, and More appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 4 million defined daily doses of medication, including insulin, personal care products, prenatal vitamins, cancer medications and more.

Resilient power in the bahamas

Direct Relief recently supported the installation of solar-powered panels and batteries at McLean’s Town Clinic to bolster resilient power efforts on the island of Grand Bahama.

The McLean’s Town Clinic will be the first public healthcare facility in the Bahamas with resilient energy.

The project is part of Direct Relief’s larger long-term recovery plan after Hurricane Dorian, which includes building, rebuilding, and restoring solar-powered Bahamian clinics and medical centers.

More on Direct Relief’s latest projects in the Bahamas here.

Material support for ukraine

This week, Direct Relief is preparing multiple shipments of requested emergency medical aid for delivery to Ukraine over the coming days from Direct Relief’s warehouse in Santa Barbara, California.

Included in this week’s shipments being prepared for delivery were 39 pallets worth of cardiovascular medications, oncology drugs, glaucoma medication, Direct Relief field medic packs, vitamins, and more.

A second shipment, containing 19 pallets worth of medical supplies, is also being prepared. This shipment contained cardiovascular medications, oncology drugs, PPE, anti-inflammatories, gastrointestinal medicines, vitamins and more.

Since Feb. 24, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.2 million pounds, or 1,100 tons, with more on the way.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 2.7 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Rwanda
• Iraq
• Ecuador
• India
• Haiti
• Malawi
• Madagascar

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 345 shipments containing 1.3 million doses of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Welvista, South Carolina
• NC MedAssist, North Carolina
• Center for Healing and Hope, Indiana
• Jefferson Comprehensive Health Center, Inc., Mississippi
• Mission Of Mercy – Arizona Clinics, Arizona
• Society of St. Vincent de Paul dba St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy, Texas
• Tulakes Clinic, Oklahoma
• Agape Clinic, Texas
• Community Care Center, North Carolina

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2022, Direct Relief has delivered 19.6K shipments to 2,291 healthcare providers in 53 U.S. states and territories and 92 countries.

These shipments contained 553 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $1.8 billion (wholesale), totaling 11.1 million lbs.

in the news

• Direct Relief’s aid for Ukraine – Santa Barbara News-Press: “Direct Relief has announced a $7.9 million humanitarian aid package for Ukraine. So far, it’s the Goleta nonprofit’s largest single financial package for medical aid to Ukraine.”
• Direct Relief Ranks Fifth in Forbes Top 100 Largest U.S. Charities, Donates Millions to Ukraine: “In Forbes Magazine’s annual list of 100 largest U.S. charities, Direct Relief earned the number five spot with $2.21 billion from private donations, 100 percent fundraising efficiency, and 100 percent charitable commitment.”

The post Solar Power in the Bahamas, Ongoing Relief for Ukraine appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 8 million defined daily doses of medication, including insulin, antibiotics, personal care products, vitamins, and more.

bolstered Support for Ukraine

This week, Direct Relief announced its broadest financial package of medical aid for Ukrainians to date through $7.9 million in financial support to organizations providing critical health and rehabilitation services to Ukrainians and Ukrainian refugees facing debilitating injuries and other severe trauma caused or compounded by the ongoing war.

Direct Relief announced the grants this week at events in Ukraine and Slovakia. Attendees included leadership from Direct Relief, the city of Lviv, the Ukrainian organization Unbroken, the U.S. Embassy in Slovakia, the Slovak Ministry of Health and Crisis Management Department, and Slovakian organizations that included the League for Mental Health and Fire Medical.

Since Feb. 24, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.2 million pounds, or 1,100 tons, with more on the way.

Over the past week, Direct Relief has provided critical emergency items to Ukraine, including insulin pens and vials, and nutritional products.

U.S. StormS

A widespread storm system has impacted much of the South and Eastern United States over the past week. On Tuesday, the storm caused damage and injuries around Dallas, Texas. At least three people were killed in Louisiana due to the storm and associated tornadoes.

A tornado also struck New Iberia, Louisiana, and damaged several buildings at the Iberia Medical Center. Many homes were damaged across Louisiana on Wednesday. Blizzard-like conditions are now impacting much of the Great Plains with significant freezing rain into the northeast, with Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Maryland expecting as much as a half-inch of ice, which will result in widespread power outages.

Direct Relief is communicating with health organizations as the storm moves across the country. These include the Louisiana Primary Care Association, the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics, and The Texas Primary Care Association. The organization will continue to monitor the effects of this storm.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 6.3 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Ethiopia
• Dominican Republic
• Sri Lanka
• India
• Uganda
• Botswana
• Ecuador

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 378 shipments containing 9,240 doses of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Welvista, South Carolina
• NC MedAssist, North Carolina
• Jefferson Comprehensive Health Center, Inc., Mississippi
• Mission Of Mercy – Arizona Clinics, Arizona
• Society of St. Vincent de Paul dba St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy, Texas
• Cove House Free Clinic, Texas
• Bread of Healing Clinic, Wisconsin
• Agape Clinic, Texas
• Community Care Center, North Carolina
• Mission Arlington Medical Clinic, Texas

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2022, Direct Relief has delivered 19.4K shipments to 2,288 healthcare providers in 53 U.S. states and territories and 92 countries.

These shipments contained 551.3 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $1.8 billion (wholesale), totaling 11.1 million lbs.

in the news

• America’s Top 100 Charities – Forbes: Direct Relief was rated the fifth largest charity in the United States in 2022, according to Forbes Magazine’s newly released annual list of the 100 largest U.S. charities, by private donations.

The post Monitoring U.S. Storms, Continued Support for Ukraine appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 3.2 million defined daily doses of medication, including antibiotics, nutrition products, wound care supplies, vitamins, and more.

Cholera Response in Haiti

As Direct Relief continues to support Haiti during the recent cholera outbreak, cholera treatment kits have departed Direct Relief’s warehouse for distribution to hospitals and clinics treating patients.

The assembled aid contains critically needed items, including oral rehydration salts, PPE, antibiotics, IV fluids, and medication administration supplies.

Supporting Sri Lanka

This week, 86 pallets of emergency medical supplies arrived in Sri Lanka as requested by the country’s Ministry of Health and other local healthcare groups. The supplies will be distributed to hospitals and healthcare clinics around the region to support Sri Lanka’s healthcare system in response to the recent economic crisis.

Direct Relief works closely with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Health, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Sri Lankan Embassy in the United States, the Medical Supply Division, and the National Medicines Regulatory Authority to deliver supplies and will continue to do so.

Material Support for Ukraine

Since Feb. 24, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.1 million pounds, or 1,038 tons, with more on the way.

Over the past week, Direct Relief has provided critical emergency items to Ukraine, including cancer medications, emergency medical backpacks, IV fluids, PPE, and more.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 2.6 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Peru
• India
• Nepal
• Honduras
• Lebanon
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 261 shipments containing 2,576 doses of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Agape Clinic, Texas
• COSSMA, Inc. – Yabucoa, Puerto Rico
• St. Vincent de Paul Charitable Pharmacy, Ohio
• The Health Hut, Louisiana
• Pancare of Florida, Inc. Malone, Florida
• Crossings Community Clinic Inc. DBA Good Shepherd Ministries of OK, INC, Oklahoma
• Community Health Clinic, Inc., Kentucky
• Outreach Health Services, Inc., Mississippi
• Arthur Nagel Community Clinic, Texas
• Scotland Community Health Clinic, North Carolina

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2022, Direct Relief has delivered 18.9K shipments to 2,244 healthcare providers in 53 U.S. states and territories and 92 countries.

These shipments contained 542 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $1.8 billion (wholesale), totaling 10.9 million lbs.

in the news

• Humanitarian Response and Climate Resilience in Puerto Rico – Center for Strategic & International Studies: “Similarly, Direct Relief, a U.S.-based humanitarian organization, installed over 400 solar panels in medical clinics, fire stations, schools, and municipal water pumps after Hurricane Maria, which curbed hundreds of energy deficits for critical facilities during Hurricane Fiona.”
• Charity Watchdog Group Again Gives Four-Star Rating to Direct Relief – Noozhawk: “Direct Relief has received a 100% rating in Charity Navigator’s Accountability & Finance category, which ‘provides an assessment of a charity’s financial health (financial efficiency, sustainability, and trustworthiness), and its commitment to governance practices and policies,’ Charity Navigator said.”

The post Continued Medical Relief for Haiti, Sri Lanka, Ukraine appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 20.9 million defined daily doses of medication, including cardiovascular drugs, antibiotics, surgical supplies, vitamins, and more.

Supporting sri lanka

This week, 86 pallets of emergency medical supplies requested by Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Health as well as other local healthcare groups are bound for Sri Lanka to support the country’s healthcare system in response to the recent economic crisis.

Since June, Direct Relief has delivered humanitarian shipments to Sri Lanka to bolster the country’s healthcare system as millions face medicine shortages.

Direct Relief works closely with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Health, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Sri Lankan Embassy in the United States, the Medical Supply Division, and the National Medicines Regulatory Authority to deliver supplies and will continue to do so.

Direct Relief receives top awards from Charity Watchdogs

For the 12th consecutive year, Direct Relief has earned a renewed four-star rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest independent charity evaluator.

In a report issued in October, the non-profit watchdog CharityWatch gave Direct Relief an A+ grade, its highest rating, based on its independent analysis of how Direct Relief uses donated funds. CharityWatch also named Direct Relief to its list of “Top-Rated Charities Providing Aid in Ukraine.”

Material Support for Ukraine

Since Feb. 24, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.1 million pounds, or 1,038 tons, with more on the way.

Over the past week, Direct Relief has provided critical emergency items to Ukraine, including COVID-19 medications, insulin needles, antibiotics, inhalers, and more.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 20.5 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Honduras
• India
• Botswana
• Ghana
• Afghanistan
• Dominican Republic
• Sri Lanka

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 221 shipments containing 1,672 doses of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Greater Killeen Free Clinic, Texas
• Center for Healing and Hope, Indiana
• Cove House Free Clinic, Texas
• Hands of Hope Medical Clinic, North Carolina
• St. Clare Medical Outreach, Maryland
• Franklin County Community Care, Texas
• Palmetto Health Council, Inc., Georgia
• Christ Clinic, Texas
• Willing Helpers Medical Inc., Georgia
• The Urban Clinic of Atlanta, Georgia

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2022, Direct Relief has delivered 18.6K shipments to 2,215 healthcare providers in 53 U.S. states and territories and 92 countries.

These shipments contained 538.8 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $1.7 billion (wholesale), totaling 10.9 million lbs.

in the news

• Direct Relief and FedEx fight cholera outbreak in Haiti – FedEx Cares: “In November, FedEx helped Direct Relief move more than 2,000 pounds of critically needed cholera treatment supplies to Haiti.”
• How inflation could impact Giving Tuesday – FOX DC/Yahoo News: “Giving Tuesday, a day meant to celebrate generosity, is coming up this week. But with high inflation making everyone’s budget tighter this year, many are wondering if they will be able to dive. Thomas Tighe joins FOX 5 Morning Saturday to talk about how you can make your year-end donations count.”
• Direct Relief awards $144,000 grant to One805 – KEYT: “Direct Relief awarded a $144,000 grant to One805 to continue funding mental health services for Santa Barbara County first responders through the new year. One805 said it provides services and equipment, including a mental wellness initiative that provides critical counseling and therapy to local firefighters and first responders who fight on the front lines.”
• Five ways to give on Giving Tuesday despite a smaller budget – WRAL News: “Thomas Tighe is the president and CEO of Direct Relief, a nonprofit organization that provides emergency medical assistance and disaster relief in the U.S. and around world. Tighe said the nonprofit world is waiting to see how much the state of the economy affects donations this year.”

The post Sending 20.5 Million Defined Daily Doses of Medication to Eight Countries, Including Sri Lanka appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 2.4 million defined daily doses of medication, including antibiotics, vitamins, surgical supplies, nutrition products, PPE, and more.

supporting earthquake recovery in Indonesia

A 5.6-magnitude earthquake struck the Indonesian island of Java on Monday, November 21. The epicenter was in the Cianjur region of West Java, 45 miles southeast of Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta. Search and rescue and other emergency response operations are ongoing, and the official death toll is expected to rise. Early reports indicate that hundreds of buildings have been damaged or destroyed.

Direct Relief has announced an initial $50,000 in emergency funding to support key local partner Muhammadiyah Disaster Management Centre (MDMC). MDMC is the disaster response arm of Indonesia’s largest civil society organization. MDMC currently has medical and search and rescue teams deployed to the affected areas. Direct Relief is also coordinating closely with its regional partner, the ASEAN Coordination Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Center), which is headquartered in Jakarta. In addition, Direct Relief is in contact with the Indonesian Ministry of Health and stands ready to support if required.

Cholera outbreak in Haiti

Recently, Direct Relief teams prepared medical support for cholera treatment which will be sent in the coming weeks to assist health centers and clinics on the front lines of the cholera outbreak in Haiti. The assembled aid contains critically needed items, including oral rehydration salts, IV fluids, PPE, antibiotics, and supplies to administer medications.

In response to the outbreak in Haiti so far, Direct Relief has sent 10 tons of cholera-related supplies, including water purification tabs, antibiotics, and IV fluids, which have been received by Zanmi Lasante and St. Boniface – with another 4 shipments to be delivered.

Additionally, Direct Relief has committed $52,000 in emergency funding, which will cover the operating costs of GHESKIO’s two cholera treatment centers. GHESKIO manages two hospitals in Port-au-Prince and has set up two 80-bed cholera treatment centers in response to the outbreak.

Material Support for Ukraine

Since Feb. 24, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.1 million pounds, or 1,038 tons, with more on the way.

Over the past week, Direct Relief has provided critical emergency items to Ukraine, including cardiovascular medications, insulin needles, antibiotics, vitamins, inhalers, and more.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 571,752 defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Honduras
• India
• Fiji
• Mexico
• Malawi
• Guatemala
• Jamaica

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 505 shipments containing 1.8 million doses of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Family Health Clinic of Monon, Indiana
• Agape Clinic, Texas
• Palmetto Health Council, Inc., Georgia
• Mission Arlington Medical Clinic, Texas
• Community Health Care Systems, Georgia
• Community Health of East Tennessee, Inc., Tennessee
• Triangle Area Network, Texas
• Free Clinic of Meridian, Inc., Mississippi
• Family Health Clinic of Wolcott, Indiana
• Center for Family Health and Education, California

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2022, Direct Relief has delivered 18.3K shipments to 2,208 healthcare providers in 53 U.S. states and territories and 92 countries.

These shipments contained 511.9 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $1.6 billion (wholesale), totaling 10.8 million lbs.

in the news

• Stressed-Out Americans Plan to Buy Fewer Christmas Gifts, Donate Less to Charity – Wall Street Journal: “We’re hopeful for a strong giving season, but we’re not counting on it,” said Thomas Tighe, chief executive of Direct Relief, a medical assistance nonprofit that takes in around $2 billion a year in donated medicine, supplies and cash to deliver help around the world.
• Checking in on Haiti – NPR: Direct Relief’s Dan Hovey discusses the current cholera outbreak in Haiti.
• How to make an impact year-round with your donations – Yahoo! News: “About one-fifth of charitable giving happens in December, and there are ways to ensure your donation makes an impact year-round. Thomas Tighe, president and CEO of Direct Relief, joins us with more.”

The post Earthquake Recovery in Indonesia, Responding to Cholera in Haiti appeared first on Direct Relief.

Among the first street medicine programs to be established in the United States, Doctors Without Walls operates an average of 14 outreach events per week, traveling to local parks and beaches to treat individuals needing health services.  

Each Thursday evening, Doctors Without Walls and more than 20 other community organizations gather to provide services, including free hot meals, transportation, and mental health services. During their most recent event, Doctors Without Walls team set up a few intake tables, each assigned with individual scribes to record patients’ information.

Patients are then triaged and assigned to treatment tables, outfitted with Direct Relief field medic packs, which contain essential items needed for wound care and triage, PPE, over-the-counter medications, and are often customized with frequently requested prescription drugs. The packs are requested globally to provide care in improvised settings, and hundreds have been sent this year to places including the frontlines of the war in Ukraine to first responders in hurricane-devastated Florida and Puerto Rico.

Providers with Doctors Without Walls use the packs to treat people where they are for various conditions ranging from skin infections, respiratory and hypertension conditions and more. 

They also distribute Direct Relief-donated personal care items like soap and basic hygiene products.

“We function as an urgent care, but our goal is to transition everyone to primary care, ultimately making our services obsolete,” said Dr. Chelsea Dean, a volunteer physician for Doctors Without Walls. 

More about Doctors Without Walls and Direct Relief’s donation of supplies and Emergency medical backpacks here

Direct Relief has provided medical support to Doctors Without Walls since 2008, including field medic packs, personal protective equipment, essential medications, including antibiotics and medicines for chronic disease management, personal care items and more.

The post Street Medicine Brings Care to Patients, Where They Need It appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 2.6 million defined daily doses of medication, including cardiovascular drugs, vitamins, personal care products, surgical supplies, PPE, and more.

The organization is tracking and responding to multiple emergencies across the globe and will continue to do so.

Supporting Pakistan’s flooding recovery

As Pakistan continues to recover from recent flooding, local hospitals and clinics are providing healthcare to those impacted. To support these efforts, Direct Relief delivered 55 tons of donated medications and supplies to Murshid Hospital, which hosted health camps in the region.

The donated medical assistance was provided by Abbott and included critical aid such as glucose strips and meters, antibiotics, nutritional products, mosquito repellant, and more.

Hurricane Nicole

On Wednesday, Tropical Storm Nicole made landfall in the northwestern Bahamas, triggering evacuations and forcing residents into shelters. The storm then made landfall the following day on the eastern coast of Florida as a Category 1 hurricane. Tornado watches are in effect on Friday for parts of North Carolina, northeastern South Carolina, and Virginia.

Direct Relief has staged emergency medical supplies at four Florida sites in the projected storm path. Each emergency cache contains more than 210 medical items most needed in the wake of a hurricane, including trauma supplies, a range of antibiotics, syringes, basic first aid supplies, and medications to treat chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and severe allergic reactions.

ebola outbreak in Uganda

In response to a recent Ebola outbreak in Uganda, Direct Relief is preparing to ship nine pallets of emergency medical items to the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Union (UNMU) is expected to arrive in the country next week. The shipment includes PPE and other requested items to protect frontline workers providing care across nine locations in the outbreak zone.

Direct Relief is also providing UNMU a $10,000 emergency grant for logistics and bolstering a community awareness campaign in coordination with the Uganda Ministry of Health.

Tornado Response

Among the buildings destroyed by the deadly tornadoes spawning from a storm that stretched from Texas to Oklahoma was Kiamichi Family Medical Center, which serves 8,808 patients across southeast Oklahoma. In response, Direct Relief has committed an initial emergency operating grant of $50,000 to Kiamichi Family Medical Center and will continue supporting its recovery and rebuilding efforts.

flu vaccine campaign

As the country experiences a sharp rise in influenza infections — with the CDC reporting 4,326 patients hospitalized due to influenza in the week ending Oct. 29 — seniors and other patients across Los Angeles County received free flu vaccines this weekend thanks to QueensCare Health Centers.

The vaccines were donated by Sanofi & provided to QueensCare by Direct Relief.

Ukraine

Since Feb. 24, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.1 million pounds, or 1,038 tons, with more on the way.

This month, Direct Relief has provided critical emergency items to Ukraine, including nutritional products, gastrointestinal drugs, insulin pens, and more.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped 842,296 defined daily doses of medication outside the US.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Tanzania
• India
• Lebanon
• Pakistan
• Malawi
• Ethiopia
• Djibouti

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 379 shipments containing 1.7 million doses of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Cactus Health Services, Inc., Texas
• Health Services Inc., Alabama
• VOCES, Puerto Rico
• Programa de Vacunacion Puerto Rico Department of Health Centro de Distribucion, Puerto Rico
• EXCELth Primary Health Care, Louisiana
• Medical Science Campus University of Puerto Rico-San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Flagler County Free Clinic, Florida
• Health Care for the Homeless City of New Orleans, Louisiana
• Clearwater Free Clinic, Florida
• Hill Country Mission for Health, Texas

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since Jan. 1, 2022, Direct Relief has delivered 17.4K shipments to 2,151 healthcare providers in 53 US states and territories and 89 countries.

These shipments contained 504.6 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $1.5 billion (wholesale), totaling 10.7 million lbs.

The post Responding to Hurricane Nicole, Pakistan Flooding and More appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 8.1 million defined daily doses of medication, including cardiovascular drugs, vitamins, antibiotics, insulin syringes and needles, personal care products, PPE, and more.

The organization is tracking and responding to multiple emergencies across the globe and will continue to do so.

HURRICANE LIsa

Hurricane Lisa made landfall in Belize on Wednesday, November 3, near Belize City. It is expected to
reach mainland Honduras, still reeling from Hurricane Julia, which triggered flooding, landslides, and
infrastructure damages.

Direct Relief is monitoring the situation and, extending from its recent response to Hurricane Julia, is
partnering COPECO, Honduras’ Disaster Management Agency. A fifteen-pallet shipment of emergency
medical supplies is currently en route to COPECO.

The shipment contains emergency medical aid, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes gastrointestinal, and mental health medications, antibiotics, wound care supplies, and PPE.

Uganda Ebola Outbreak

On September 20th, 2022, an Ebola outbreak was detected in the Mubende District of Uganda, just 90 miles from its capital city, Kampala. The virus has since reached Kampala, the country’s most densely populated area, making it much more difficult to trace and contain. According to the World Health Organization’s Uganda country office, there have been 130 confirmed cases and 43 deaths, as of November 2, 2022.

Direct Relief remains in close communication with the Ugandan Ministry of Health, the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Union, and other healthcare networks to offer PPE and other support.

Cholera Outbreak in Lebanon

In response to a recent outbreak of Cholera in Lebanon, Direct Relief has prepared a 15-pallet shipment for distribution to local NGO People 2 People Aid. The shipment contains critical medical supplies and medications, including water purification tabs, oral rehydration therapies, gastrointestinal drugs, medical scrubs, goggles, surgical masks, cardiovascular drugs, and oncology drugs.

Hurricane FIONA, SIX WEEKS Into Recovery

In the six weeks since the storm, Direct Relief has shipped more than 90 shipments of emergency medical aid worth $484,000 to Puerto Rico. A significant portion of the response came from medical material staged in Puerto Rico as part of its strategic role as a regional hub for disaster response in the Caribbean and beyond.

Read more here.

Ukraine

Since February 24, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 2.1 million pounds, or 1,038 tons, with more on the way.

This week, 44 tons of medical aid departed Direct Relief’s warehouse to northeastern and western Ukrainian cities. The shipments include specifically requested items, such as nutritional supplements, insulin syringes and needles, inhalers, and antibiotics.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped more than 3.7 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

• Ukraine
• Lebanon
• India
• Egypt
• Honduras
• Guatemala
• Ecuador
• Zimbabwe

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 392 shipments containing 4.4 million doses of medications over the past week to organizations, including the following:

• Urban Inter-Tribal Center of Texas, Texas
• Community Care Center, North Carolina
• Dream Centers Women’s Clinic, Colorado
• The Floating Hospital, New York
• EXCELth Primary Health Care, Louisiana
• Good News Care Center, Florida
• Open Arms Health Clinic, Texas
• Franklin County Community Care, Texas
• Ibn Sina Foundation, Texas
• Pancare of Florida, Inc. Malone, Florida

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since January 1, 2022, Direct Relief has delivered 17K shipments to 2,141 healthcare providers in 53 U.S. states and territories and 88 countries.

These shipments contained 502.8 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $1.5 billion (wholesale), totaling 10.7 million lbs.

The post Responding to Multiple Emergencies – Hurricane Lisa, Ebola Outbreak in Uganda, Cholera in Lebanon appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 3.4 million defined daily doses of medication, including antibiotics, vaccines, nutritional products, and more.

The organization is tracking multiple responses across the globe and will continue to respond.

Cholera outbreak

Direct Relief is responding to cholera outbreaks in multiple parts of the world, including Haiti, Syria, and Lebanon.

This week, a shipment was prepared weighing more than seven tons for Haiti. At least 16 people have died and hundreds have been hospitalized due to a cholera outbreak in the country, exacerbated by gang violence, civil unrest, and food insecurity. A shipment was prepared this week that includes IV fluids, oral rehydration salts, water purification tablets, and cots.

The organization also shipped nearly three tons of medical aid to Syria, including 2 million defined daily doses of medication of oral rehydration salts, vitamins, and cardiovascular medicines. More than 13,000 cases of cholera have been reported in Syria, resulting in at least 60 deaths.  Several cholera cases have been reported in Lebanon, and Direct Relief is preparing several shipments, including water purification tablets and oral rehydration salts for that region as well.

Hurricane Fiona recovery

Direct Relief staff in Puerto Rico participated in a community health fair in Yabucoa, on the southeastern part of the island, alongside local health center COSSMA. Yabucoa was among the most affected areas after Hurricane María. During Hurricane Fiona, several communities suffered flooding with many of its residents being elderly and lacking access to healthcare services.

COSSMA’s medical mobile unit, donated by Direct Relief, served as an on-site clinic where more than 30 patients received primary and mental healthcare services. Additionally, the team visited a family with multiple structural, physical, and mental health needs identified by COSSMA’s social worker. Another two families have been identified which the team will be visiting in the upcoming weeks.

In Yabucoa, Direct Relief staff also distributed hygiene kits that were donated by kindergarten and pre-k students of the Baldwin School of Puerto Rico. The students, alongside their teachers, wanted to contribute to Fiona’s relief efforts by preparing the kits with personalized notes.

Additionally, Direct Relief staff assisted in a final walkthrough at COSSMA health center in Yabucoa for the ninth solar and battery backup project completed and funded by Direct Relief. The system is providing energy for the fridges in the clinic’s pharmacy and IT areas, dental wing, AC units to cover those designated areas, as well as all the lighting in and around the building.

emergency preparedness

This week, Direct Relief staff met with representatives from Cedars-Sinai, Community Clinic Association of Los Angeles County (CCALAC), Saban Community Clinic, and others to launch the distribution of Direct Relief Emergency Medical Packs to CCALAC members and to discuss emergency preparedness and response in Los Angeles County.

“One of the grounding philosophies of Direct Relief is to support and equip community health centers on the ground for disasters and emergency response,” said Leighton Jones, Direct Relief’s Director of Emergency Response & New Initiatives, during the visit.

Ukraine

Since February 24, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 1.9 million pounds, or 950 tons, with more on the way.

This week, Direct Relief has provided 36 emergency medical backpacks and twelve pallets worth of critical medications and supplies to Ukraine.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped more than 1.5 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 519 shipments containing 1.9 million doses of medications over the past week to organizations including the following:

• Welvista, South Carolina
• NC MedAssist, North Carolina
• Society of St. Vincent de Paul dba St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy, Texas
• CommunityHealth, Illinois
• Martin Luther King Health Center, Louisiana
• Good News Clinics, Georgia
• Hands of Grace Medical Clinic, Georgia
• Jefferson Comprehensive Health Center, Inc., Mississippi
• Samaritans Touch Care Center, Inc, Florida

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since January 1, 2022, Direct Relief has delivered 16.1K shipments to 2,122 healthcare providers in 53 U.S. states and territories and 87 countries.

These shipments contained 471.1 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $1.4 billion (wholesale), totaling 10.4 million lbs.

IN THE NEWS

• View of kidney care in Ukraine months after the Russian invasion – Healio: “He shared that nephrologists are continuing “intensive contact” with Direct Relief to ensure medical and dialysis supplies. Anyone interested in supporting nephrologists, dialysis staff and patients with kidney disease in Ukraine are welcome to donate through this Direct Relief campaign.“
• Miami Heat Partners with World Central Kitchen & Direct Relief to Donate $1M In Support of Hurricane Ian Relief – NBA: “Direct Relief continues to respond to Hurricane Ian’s impacts across the state of Florida. The organization is currently coordinating multiple rapid-response shipments of medical aid across the state and will continue to respond to requests in the coming days and weeks.”

The post Hurricane Fiona Recovery, Responding to Cholera, and More appeared first on Direct Relief.

The shipments contained 4.1 million defined daily doses of medication, including antibiotics, cardiovascular medications, vaccines, and more.

The organization is tracking multiple responses across the globe and will continue to respond.

Afghanistan

This week, Afshar Hospital in Kabul, Afghanistan received 500 Direct Relief personal care kits and 36 field medic packs to support the hospital’s patients and surrounding community members.

Afshar Hospital provided a team of physicians and nurses in response to the earthquake that hit the region in June 2022, and the hospital requested this shipment to have in preparation for future medical emergencies.

Hurricane Julia

Guatemala and El Salvador experienced torrential rains this week as Hurricane Julia dissipated after hitting Nicaragua, forcing thousands to evacuate and resulting in 28 deaths.

Direct Relief is coordinating medical shipments to the region to support local healthcare providers responding to the storm. The organization is also providing information insights to first responders and government agencies about population movement as a result of the storm.

Haiti Cholera Outbreak

The World Health Organization and PAHO are reporting that cholera has returned to Haiti, having already resulted in seven deaths and more than thirty confirmed active cases. Warnings are being issued that a number of cases have likely gone undiagnosed and there is potential for more to emerge.

As the public health situation continues to deteriorate, in the past month, gangs have controlled a large number of areas in the country, blocking access to Haiti’s largest fuel port, disrupting aid routes, and stopping water trucks from resupplying neighborhoods.

Cholera is typically spread by contaminated food or water containing the fecal matter of a sick person, and without access to clean water sources or fully functioning health facilities, the fuel shortages only further hinder efforts to stop the spread.

Direct Relief staff has been in direct communication with PAHO and the Haitian Ministry of Health to deliver nine pallets worth of requested medical supplies including antibiotics and medications.

Ukraine

Since February 24, Direct Relief has provided medical aid to Ukraine weighing more than 1.9 million pounds, or 950 tons, with more on the way.

This week, the organization prepared more than 40 pallets of medical aid for Ukraine, and those shipments are expected to depart next week.

OPERATIONAL SNAPSHOT

WORLDWIDE

This week, Direct Relief shipped more than 3.4 million defined daily doses of medication outside the U.S.

Countries that received medical aid over the past week included:

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 506 shipments containing 743,867 doses of medications over the past week to organizations including the following:

• Welvista, South Carolina
• First Refuge Ministries Medical Clinic First Baptist Denton Ministry Center, Texas
• Start Corporation (CHC), Louisiana
• Project Lazarus, North Carolina
• Eunice Community Health Center, Louisiana
• Prototype Health, Inc., Arizona
• St. Gabriel Eastside Community Health Center, Louisiana
• Outreach Health Services, Inc., Mississippi
• St. Vincent de Paul Charitable Pharmacy, Ohio

YEAR-TO-DATE (GLOBAL)

Since January 1, 2022, Direct Relief has delivered 15.5K shipments to 2,098 healthcare providers in 53 U.S. states and territories and 87 countries.

These shipments contained 467.4 million defined daily doses of medication valued at $1.4 billion (wholesale), totaling 10.1 million lbs.

IN THE NEWS

• Helping Ukraine – Santa Barbara News-Press: “This month, Direct Relief sent more than seven tons of aid in the form of 64 types of medications to Ukraine, Tony Morain, the nonprofit’s vice president for communications, told the News-Press on Monday.“
• Issa Trust, Direct Relief, donate medical backpacks to WRHA – Jamaica Observer: “The backpacks that are to be distributed among the four western parishes of Westmoreland, Trelawny, Hanover, and St James, were sourced through Direct Relief, a non-profit humanitarian organization that provides emergency medical assistance and disaster relief.”

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