Direct Relief has supplied the camp with more than $130,000 in essential diabetes management materials since 2013. Recognizing the increasing frequency of power outages caused by high winds, storms, and public safety power shutoffs, the organization expanded its support in 2024 through a Power for Health initiative grant to install a 12-unit battery backup system.

The system powers the medical center and kitchen, helping safeguard insulin, food, and critical device charging—an essential protection for the camp’s remote location, where power disruptions are frequent.

With this added resilience, campers and staff can focus on creating lifelong memories and building community within an often-isolating disease. Direct Relief staff visited during the summer session to document the impact, and the resulting video offers a visual look into the magic and transformational experiences had at Bearskin Meadow Camp.

Over the past five years, Direct Relief has provided more than $3.5 million in donated medicines and supplies to kids’ camps around the U.S. In 2025, Direct Relief supported 115 camps, serving more than 18,000 campers.

The post Supporting Kids with Type 1 Diabetes at Bearskin Meadow Camp appeared first on Direct Relief.

Although women account for half of the world’s population, persistent gaps in healthcare funding, research, and access leave many without essential care.

Direct Relief’s maternal and child health program equips midwives and frontline health workers with the tools, medicines, and supplies needed to ensure safer pregnancies and deliveries. Direct Relief provides midwife kits (each supporting 50 safe births) and perinatal health kits stocked with medications and tools needed to treat life-threatening conditions affecting women and newborns. Together, these resources enable midwives and healthcare professionals to deliver compassionate care in communities where 94% of maternal deaths occur.

In 2024 alone, Direct Relief delivered more than 1,000 maternal and child health kits to healthcare partners in 27 countries — resources that enabled more than 65,000 safe births, surgeries, and pregnancy interventions. With this award, the organization plans to expand access to these life-saving resources, aiming to distribute more than 6,000 midwife kits over the next three years, supporting approximately 300,000 safe deliveries.

“We are deeply honored to be selected as an awardee of Action for Women’s Health at such a pivotal moment,” said Amy Weaver, Chief Executive Officer at Direct Relief. “The need for high-quality care during pregnancy and childbirth is growing rapidly in underserved communities around the world. This recognition and support will enable Direct Relief to expand its work to reach more women, more midwives, and more health facilities with the tools needed to save lives. While this award provides a powerful boost, it also underscores just how much more must be done to ensure every woman and every newborn has the chance for a safe, healthy future.”

After a rigorous evaluation by experts and peers in global health — reviewing more than 4,000 applications from 119 countries — Direct Relief was selected as one of 80 awardees recognized for advancing maternal and child health.

Action for Women’s Health is funded by Pivotal, a group of impact organizations founded by Melinda French Gates, and managed by Lever for Change, an organization with a track record of identifying bold ideas to solve the world’s most pressing problems.

Building on this recognition, Direct Relief is accelerating the scale of its maternal and child health program to meet the rapidly growing demand for essential health services for women and newborns in the world’s most underserved communities. While this award marks a significant and meaningful step forward, it represents only a fraction of what is needed to address the vast and urgent gaps in maternal health access worldwide.

By deepening local partnerships, reinforcing supply chains, and equipping midwives with the tools they need to deliver lifesaving care, Direct Relief remains committed to advancing health equity and ensuring that every woman—no matter where she lives—has the chance for a safe birth and a healthy start for her child.

Learn more about Direct Relief’s global maternal health initiatives and how to support them.

The post Direct Relief Recognized as Action for Women’s Health Awardee for Expanding Global Maternal Care appeared first on Direct Relief.

In addition to the $2 billion in aid, Direct Relief has committed more than $60 million in financial support to local healthcare providers and organizations providing care in Ukraine and other countries, including Poland, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic, that have opened their doors to Ukrainian refugees.

From the first airlifts of trauma kits in February 2022 to the installation of battery-backup systems in hospitals during winter blackouts, Direct Relief has worked in continuous collaboration with Ukraine’s Ministry of Health, regional authorities, and local healthcare providers.

“Surpassing the $2 billion mark is not just a measure of what has been delivered. It’s a reflection of the trust placed in Direct Relief by donors and the resolve of Ukraine’s health providers, who have held their system together under extraordinary strain,” said Amy Weaver, CEO of Direct Relief. “This milestone underscores what can be achieved when private philanthropy and mission-driven partners act decisively together. As the war continues, our focus remains on ensuring consistent access to care, from medicines and rehabilitation to resilient power, mental health support, and essential medical services for displaced and vulnerable populations.”

In partnership with the Ministry of Health, Direct Relief has aligned its support with Ukraine’s national recovery priorities — supporting health facilities serving internally displaced people, rehabilitating critical infrastructure, expanding access to advanced therapies for chronic and rare diseases, and funding organizations providing psychosocial and trauma recovery programs. This sustained engagement reflects a transition from crisis response to long-term support, ensuring that aid continues to deliver impact well beyond the immediate emergency.

“Direct Relief has been consistently supporting Ukraine’s healthcare system throughout the war. This assistance is coordinated with the Ministry of Health, ensuring that resources are directed where they are needed most. We highly value this partnership, which saves Ukrainian lives and strengthens the resilience of healthcare services. In the most challenging moments — when hospitals operate under shelling, when the power goes out but doctors continue treating patients — the support of Direct Relief is especially tangible,” said Viktor Liashko, Ukraine’s Minister of Health.

“It stands as an example of effective international solidarity, embodied in concrete results: modern equipment, medicines, backup power systems, and the development of rehabilitation and mental health services. We are deeply grateful to the Direct Relief team and to everyone helping to reinforce Ukraine’s healthcare system, ensuring it remains effective, strong, and resilient.”

Essential Medicines and Supplies

At the center of Direct Relief’s work is the provision of critical medicines and supplies. To date, the organization has delivered more than $2,046,000,000 in wholesale value, including more than 449 million defined daily doses of essential medicines used for trauma care, chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer, and maternal and child health. These shipments are directed by real-time requests from the Ministry of Health and local providers to ensure every delivery meets urgent and specific clinical needs.

Rehabilitation & Prosthetics: Restoring Lives, Rebuilding Futures

As Ukraine’s health system continues to absorb the human cost of war, thousands of civilians and service members have lost limbs and now face long paths to recovery. Direct Relief’s support for rehabilitation and prosthetics has focused on strengthening national institutions and independent organizations working to restore mobility and rebuild lives.

Among them is the Unbroken National Rehabilitation Center in Lviv, now a national hub for advanced rehabilitative care. With support from Direct Relief and others, Unbroken has transformed a seven-story building into a fully equipped center where patients living with limb loss and other injuries relearn daily routines.

Direct Relief also supports the Protez Foundation, a U.S.- and Ukraine-based nonprofit that manufactures and fits custom prosthetics for civilians and soldiers injured in the conflict. The foundation has expanded its workshops and training programs with help from Direct Relief, enabling hundreds of amputees to receive modern prosthetic limbs and specialized therapy, free of charge.

A growing number of those receiving care are also joining the workforce to help others. At U+ System in Kyiv, a Direct Relief–supported organization, veterans who once depended on prosthetics now produce and fit them for new patients — part of an emerging trend of amputees becoming prosthetists. “When a technician is an amputee himself, it’s easier to share this experience and help patients realize how they can recover after such a trauma,” said surgeon Oleksandra Mostepan.

Protez has launched a similar initiative, employing veterans and equipping workstations for people with disabilities. “We already have two veterans working — Danyl and Mykola — and we’re preparing more,” said Yury Aroshidze, the foundation’s CEO.

Together, these programs are redefining rehabilitation in Ukraine, shifting it from a story only defined by loss to one that includes leadership, skill-building, and community resilience.

Expanding Access to Health Services Across Ukraine

As millions of people have been displaced internally, and many communities continue to experience intense conditions, Direct Relief supports medical outreach programs that expand access to both primary and specialized healthcare for residents and internally displaced persons throughout Ukraine. These programs strengthen local health capacity by equipping healthcare facilities, mobile teams, and regional networks to deliver consistent, high-quality care to people who have lost access to regular medical services.

Through these efforts, Direct Relief helps health providers respond to the evolving needs of their communities. This includes managing chronic conditions and prenatal care, as well as providing essential consultations, medicines, and diagnostics in areas hosting displaced populations.

By reinforcing healthcare delivery networks nationwide, Direct Relief ensures that people affected by conflict and displacement can access safe, reliable care close to where they live. This work sustains the continuity of Ukraine’s health system through unprecedented challenges.

Power Resilience for Health Facilities: Keeping the Lights on in Crisis

Electric grid attacks have become a recurrent tactic in Ukraine, severing power to homes and health facilities alike. To address power outages at critical facilities, Direct Relief supported the purchase and installation of battery-backup systems under its Power for Health initiative, donating more than 2,000 battery storage units to hospitals and health facilities across the country.

This critical infrastructure powers surgical suites, neonatal incubators, oxygen concentrators, and electronic health records systems during blackouts. At Kharkiv Regional Hospital alone, the battery units help the facility operate autonomously, absorbing grid outages and enabling continuous care.

Ukraine’s Minister of Health, Viktor Liashko, noted that each attack on the energy grid directly threatens patients’ lives, saying, “Every day, our medical facilities are subjected to targeted attacks … Ensuring uninterrupted medical care under any conditions … is our main task in the realities of war.”

In one harrowing case, doctors performed a critical surgery during a blackout by switching to battery power mid-procedure, an operation that would have otherwise been interrupted. Such incidents underscore the life-saving role of backup power in wartime.

By investing in resilient energy systems, Direct Relief helps preserve the backbone of Ukraine’s health infrastructure — allowing doctors to save lives even when the grid goes dark.

Healing the Invisible Wounds of War: Mental Health and Psychosocial Support

Beyond physical devastation, the war has inflicted deep psychological wounds on the people of Ukraine. Daily threats of violence, displacement, and loss have left millions facing anxiety, depression, and trauma. In response, Direct Relief has made mental health and psychosocial support a central element of its ongoing humanitarian work, supporting organizations that are building national psychosocial support networks and expanding the availability of trained counselors and clinical psychologists.

In addition, Direct Relief is supporting an effort to train mental health professionals and civil defense first responders to assist people in the immediate aftermath of attacks, flooding, and other crises. The model is designed to help communities stabilize quickly and recover.

Sustained Commitment

Since February 2022, more than 2,300 medical facilities in Ukraine have been damaged, including 305 fully destroyed, according to the Ministry of Health. The World Bank and European Union estimate that the country’s health sector faces $19.4 billion in recovery needs — a scale of loss that underscores both the urgency and the importance of sustained private humanitarian engagement.

Direct Relief accepts no government funding, relying solely on private donations and in-kind contributions to maintain the speed and flexibility required in crisis response. The organization will continue to support the country’s health system — from medicine deliveries and rehabilitation programs to expanded healthcare access, resilient power, and mental health — to ensure care remains available into the future.

The post Direct Relief Surpasses $2 Billion in Aid to Ukraine appeared first on Direct Relief.

Recognizing the heightened threat, Direct Relief is closely monitoring conditions and coordinating with partners across the region to ensure emergency medical aid can be deployed quickly and effectively.

“With Melissa expected to intensify — and with its future track uncertain — preparedness is key for ensuring the health and safety of these communities,” said Luis David Rodríguez, Caribbean Emergency Response Manager at Direct Relief. “Because essential supplies have been pre-positioned — including over $3 million in medical aid delivered within the last month and significant investment in backup power in Jamaica over the past year — health facilities across the region will be able to continue treating patients, even if flooding and power outages disrupt normal supply lines.”

Direct Relief is also processing incoming emergency requests, including a shipment of 100 field medic packs for the National Health Fund Jamaica, as well as 250 personal care kits with hygiene items for displaced families. Additional emergency response resources, including medicines and supplies, are available for rapid deployment from Direct Relief’s headquarters in Santa Barbara as conditions evolve.

In the past 30 days alone, Direct Relief has delivered over $3.1 million in medical aid to the potentially impacted areas — positioning critical resources on the ground and ready for immediate use following the storm:

• Jamaica: $132,102 in medical aid to the National Health Fund
• Haiti: $243,518 in medicines and medical supplies (over 2,000 pounds) to the Pan American Health Organization in Haiti
• Dominican Republic: $2.8 million in medicines, medical supplies, field medic packs for first responders, and personal care items for displaced people (over 10,000 pounds) to five partner organizations — Centro Médico Central Romana, Patronato Benéfico Oriental, Fundación Solidaria del Divino Niño Jesús, Hospital Infantil Robert Reid Cabral, and Defensa Civil, the Dominican Republic’s National Emergency Management Agency

These recent shipments build on Direct Relief’s long-term support in the Caribbean, where the organization has delivered more than $1.8 billion worth of medical aid across 460 health-care partners in the region.

About the Hurricane Preparedness Program

Direct Relief’s Hurricane Preparedness Program — the largest charitable hurricane preparedness initiative of its kind globally — equips local healthcare providers in hurricane-prone regions with pre-positioned caches of essential resources so care can begin within hours of impact. There are four of these Hurricane preparedness packs, or HPPs, pre-positioned within the storm’s current projected path, each designed to support the care of 3,000 people for one month.

Direct Relief is coordinating with the Jamaica Ministry of Health, Hope for Haiti, Defensa Civil, Patronato Benéfico Oriental, and the Pan American Health Organization, or PAHO, which monitors both Haiti and Cuba.

Preparedness efforts across the Caribbean include:

• Haiti: Two HPPs are pre-positioned in the country with PAHO and Hope for Haiti
• Jamaica: In 2024, Direct Relief provided a $3 million grant to the National Health Fund to install a solar-energy system at the country’s primary pharmaceutical distribution facility, strengthening health-system resilience. Following Hurricane Beryl, Direct Relief donated 24 generators, all now installed at health facilities across the southern coast and greater Kingston area to ensure continuity of care during power outages.
• Dominican Republic: Two HPPs are pre-positioned — one with Patronato Benéfico Oriental and another with Fundación Solidaria del Divino Niño Jesús, both long-term partners organizations of Direct Relief. In addition, Defensa Civil has received 108 emergency medical backpacks and 300 personal care kits filled with hygiene items to support displaced families during disasters.

Direct Relief has consistently supported Caribbean health systems through hurricanes and other disasters, including Hurricanes Matthew, Dorian, Maria, Fiona, and Beryl. With pre-positioned supplies, resilient energy and backup power infrastructure enhancements, and trusted regional logistics networks, the organization stands ready to respond to future requests for aid as they become known.

The post Direct Relief Mobilizes as Tropical Storm Melissa Threatens to Become Major Hurricane appeared first on Direct Relief.

Based in California since 1948, Direct Relief has a long track record of responding to natural disasters across the state — from wildfires and debris flows to earthquakes and atmospheric river storms. Ahead of this week’s storm, the organization is coordinating with local and state partners, monitoring conditions in high-risk areas, and preparing emergency medical supplies for rapid deployment.

Health Implications of Flooding and Displacement

Severe storms often trigger cascading health effects that continue long after the immediate impact. Extended power outages can prevent people from safely storing temperature-sensitive medications, such as insulin, and disrupt access to electricity-powered medical equipment. Flooding can force residents to evacuate their homes, disrupting access to health care and increasing the risk of injury, stress, and chronic disease complications. By mobilizing early with local health centers, free clinics, and other community organizations, Direct Relief aims to help ensure that people who rely on ongoing medical care do not face additional risk.

“When extreme weather strikes, the most serious health consequences often come from disruptions to daily care — not just the storm itself,” said Staci Richard, California Emergency Response Manager for Direct Relief. “Our priority is to make sure essential medications and supplies are positioned in the community where they can be accessed quickly and safely.”

Supporting California’s Search and Rescue Teams

Direct Relief also continues to strengthen California’s ability to respond to emergencies through its Search and Rescue Fund, established in 2023 following a series of catastrophic winter storms across the state. The fund was created to bolster the operational capacity of the state’s 7,500 volunteer search and rescue, or SAR, members, who often cover the cost of their own gear, training, and equipment while serving as the first line of response during floods, debris flows, and other emergencies.

Since its inception, the Search and Rescue Fund has provided more than $1.1 million in direct support to volunteer teams statewide. That includes more than $600,000 in 2023 for Santa Barbara County SAR and other local teams responding to flooding, and over $500,000 in 2024 through a statewide grant round supporting 19 volunteer SAR teams across 38 counties in California.

“Search and rescue volunteers play an essential role in protecting people during floods, debris flows, and other disasters,” said Richard. “By supporting these dedicated teams, Direct Relief helps ensure Californians can be reached when they’re in greatest need.”

Strengthening Energy Resilience Across California

In addition to mobilizing essential medicines and supplies, Direct Relief continues to invest in long-term energy resilience to help communities withstand future disasters and power disruptions. Direct Relief has equipped 21 healthcare sites across California with resilient backup power systems, ensuring that critical services, refrigeration for medicines, and communications remain operational during grid outages.

These systems support:

• 14 Federally Qualified Health Center organizations operating 16 sites

• Two Planned Parenthood health centers (Santa Barbara and Ventura)
• One free and charitable clinic (Free Clinic of Simi Valley)
• Two additional community sites equipped with standalone battery systems (Bearskin Meadow Camp and Laguna Beach Community Clinic)

From Mendocino County to Los Angeles, these resilient power systems provide a lifeline during extended outages and disasters, enabling trusted community healthcare providers to remain open and serve people when access to care is most critical.

As the typhoon- and tropical storm-fueled storm approaches, Direct Relief remains in close contact with local and state emergency managers and community partners statewide and stands ready to provide aid wherever it is needed most.

The post Direct Relief Mobilizes Ahead of Typhoon-Fueled Storm Expected to Impact California appeared first on Direct Relief.

Speaking virtually, Weaver commended the more than 1,400 free and charitable clinics and charitable pharmacies represented by NAFC for their decades of work to make health care accessible to uninsured and underserved patients.

“Some of the most vital, life-affirming health care in this country is being delivered for free — in clinics that receive no federal funding, are often overlooked in policy conversations, and yet continue to care for people others can’t or won’t,” Weaver said. “You don’t do this work for recognition or headlines. You do it because it’s right. And you do it with skill, compassion, and incredible perseverance.”

Weaver underscored the urgency of supporting these clinics as more Americans lose health insurance or face barriers to care.

“We know where they’ll turn — to you,” she said. “And we also know you can’t absorb this growing need alone. That’s why Direct Relief is here — to support you, stand with you, and ensure that your doors stay open and your shelves stay stocked.”

A Partnership Forged in Crisis

Direct Relief’s partnership with NAFC began 20 years ago during the response to Hurricane Katrina, when free and charitable clinics stepped up to provide essential care amid collapsed health systems. That moment, Weaver noted, shaped how Direct Relief operates today and laid the foundation for a collaboration that has strengthened the grassroots health -care safety net nationwide.

Since that time, Direct Relief has provided more than $1.4 billion in donated medical aid to more than 860 free & charitable clinics and charitable pharmacies, helping to keep shelves stocked and services running.

Beyond product support, $19.5 million in cash grants have been awarded to nearly 100 clinics to strengthen health systems, expand equity initiatives, bolster disaster preparedness and response, and invest in resilient power and infrastructure.

Direct Relief has also committed $10.7 million for direct clinic awards and NAFC program management — including its role as lead sponsor of the annual NAFC Symposium since 2014.

Program Highlights

Weaver spotlighted several joint efforts that have emerged from this long-standing collaboration:

• Community Routes: Access to Mental Health Care – Launched in 2022 with Teva and NAFC, the program expands behavioral health services and provides donated medicines for depression and anxiety, along with grant funding for clinics to increase culturally competent care and outreach.
• Continuity of Care – A multi-year initiative with BD that has supported cancer screenings and follow-up for women’s health at free and charitable clinics since 2017.
• Equity Expansion Grants – In 2024, Direct Relief committed $1 million over two years to strengthen equity initiatives across NAFC member clinics. Awardees of these grants were recognized at this year’s Symposium.
• Inhaler Access Initiative – Launched in 2024 in partnership with Teva to provide free generic inhalers to uninsured patients with asthma and other respiratory conditions.

These programs have helped NAFC clinics — which collectively serve 1.7 million patients through 6 million visits annually with the support of 189,000 volunteers — expand services and strengthen their ability to respond to emergencies.

Shared Values: Health as a Human Right

Weaver emphasized that the most powerful link between Direct Relief and NAFC is a shared commitment to dignity and equity in health care.

“More than any single program, what connects us is a shared belief — that health is a human right, not a privilege. That dignity matters. That everyone deserves a fair chance to live a healthier life,” she said. “You bring that belief to life every single day.”

Closing the two-day gathering, Weaver encouraged clinic leaders to carry the connections forged at the Symposium back to their communities.

“As you return home to your patients and your communities, carry those connections with you — and know that Direct Relief is right there alongside you. We are honored to be your partners, and we look forward to everything we will continue to do together.”

The post Stronger Together: Amy Weaver Highlights 20 Years of Partnership at NAFC Symposium appeared first on Direct Relief.

Direct Relief responded immediately — delivering emergency medicines and supplies, granting emergency funds, and supporting outreach teams reaching patients in cut-off areas. One year later, needs have shifted but essential drivers of community health — stable housing, food access, behavioral health and reliable care pathways — remain acute across Helene-affected communities. 

Direct Relief’s sustained support over the past twelve months totals $45.1 million in medical and financial assistance across six states, including $4.6 million in funding to 26 community organizations and $40.5 million in donated medical aid to 137 organizations (about 7 million defined daily doses of medications). 

Direct Relief continues to work alongside local organizations to restore health services, stabilize housing, support mental health and build long-term resilience.

by the Numbers

$45.1 Million

in medical and financial assistance provided to communities affected by Hurricane Helene in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia over the past twelve months

$4.6 Million

in funding to 26 community organizations

$40.5 Million

in donated medical aid and supplies to 137 organizations

7 Million

defined daily doses of medications for respiratory conditions, diabetes, mental health, cardiovascular issues, and skin-related injuries

North Carolina

Rapid Response Anchored In Long-Term Partnerships 

Direct Relief’s response to Hurricane Helene builds on a decades-long commitment to improving health access throughout the US. North Carolina has long been a major recipient of Direct Relief’s ongoing support. That existing presence enabled rapid deployment of mobile clinics, emergency grants and medicine shipments immediately after Helene, and provided the foundation for Direct Relief’s sustained recovery work. The figures listed above reflect Direct Relief’s comprehensive support since Hurricane Helene devastated the region.  

From Emergency Relief to Long-Term Recovery 

In the early aftermath of Helene, Direct Relief prioritized rapid deployment of medicines and supplies to affected clinics and evacuation sites. As communities began the long road to recovery, the focus evolved: helping clinics restore services, addressing mental health needs, stabilizing housing, and investing in infrastructure and resilience. 

This shift reflects the reality of long-term disaster recovery—where health, housing, and access are deeply interconnected, and rebuilding must be driven by those who know the needs best: local organizations. 

Research shows that the mortality and health burden of hurricanes is not limited to immediate storm deaths; long-term excess mortality can be orders of magnitude higher due to disrupted care, displacement and socioeconomic shocks. That long tail reinforces the need for sustained investments in chronic-care continuity, housing stability, mental health, and resilient clinic infrastructure.

Restoring Healthcare Access

Flooding from Helene disrupted access to care in multiple rural counties, damaging clinic infrastructure and disrupting operations. Direct Relief provided emergency grants, shipments of requested medications, mobile medical kits, and operating support to keep rural clinics functioning. 

One year later, Direct Relief continues to support facilities like the Micaville Health Center, which is rebuilding after severe flood damage. The center’s story, featured in “Still Recovering from Helene’s Aftermath”, highlights the vital role of community clinics in disaster recovery. 

Power, Clinic Closures, And The Hidden Health Toll 

Power outages were a major driver of clinic closures and lost care. Direct Relief’s Lights Out research documents widespread outages and service disruptions after Helene (surveyed clinics reported tens of thousands of canceled visits and millions in lost revenue), underscoring the link between lost power and long-term health harms.

Mental Health & Community Wellness 

Emotional recovery has been a major need across Helene-impacted areas. Direct Relief supported Resources For Resilience (RFR) with a $90,000 grant to provide trauma-informed training for frontline healthcare workers, caregivers, and community groups. Workshops offer bilingual access and hands-on tools for managing stress, grief, and uncertainty during recovery. 

Housing and Community Stabilization 

In Swannanoa Valley, the loss of housing from Helene created a crisis that touched every aspect of community health. Direct Relief supported Swannanoa Communities Together (SCT) with an $85,000 emergency grant to stabilize more than 150 households through rental assistance, FEMA navigation, and trauma-informed casework. 

Food Access and Social Determinants Of Health 

Access to nutritious food remains a core challenge for rural families recovering from Helene. Through a $500,000 grant, Direct Relief supported the WNC Food Systems Coalition (WNCFSC) to deliver weekly boxes of fresh, locally sourced food across five counties, paired with health navigation from CHWs embedded in clinics. 

Partner Spotlight

Community Health Network Doula Program 

The Community Health Network of Western North Carolina (CHN) launched a clinic-connected community doula program to address gaps in maternal care. Supported by a $400,000 grant from Direct Relief, the program trains and embeds doulas within rural clinics to assist with prenatal care, perinatal mental health, and culturally responsive services. 

Stories from the Field 

Still Recovering from Helene’s Aftermath 

Post-Hurricane Helene: Meeting Immediate Housing Needs 

Months After Helene, Communities Still Recovering 

Looking Ahead 

Even one year later, the impacts of Hurricane Helene continue to ripple through communities. Housing remains limited. Behavioral health needs are growing, especially in children and young adults. Infrastructure is still being rebuilt. Barriers to care persist and are exacerbated for many who faced challenges before the storm.  

Direct Relief remains committed to standing alongside communities in Western North Carolina—supporting locally led, clinic-connected work with equity at the center—to strengthen rural health access and help build systems that endure through the next storm and beyond. 

The post Hurricane Helene: One Year Later appeared first on Direct Relief.

Direct Relief is responding to two wildfires in California—supporting communities under evacuation from the rapidly spreading Canyon Fire in Los Angeles County while continuing to address smoke-related health risks from the massive Gifford Fire on the Central Coast. 

The Canyon Fire, which ignited Thursday near Lake Piru, has burned nearly 5,000 acres. Mandatory evacuation orders are in place for roughly 5,000 people and 700 structures, with an additional 11,000 residents and 4,700 structures under evacuation warnings.  

Often as a result of being evacuated, displaced individuals experience disruption in essential healthcare, including lack of access to critically needed medications. People living with chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma, and hypertension may be forced to leave home without the medicines or supplies they rely on daily. Within a 20-mile radius of the Canyon Fire, seven Direct Relief–supported health centers are part of a critical network needed to ensure that displaced and impacted residents can refill prescriptions and receive care during and after the emergency. The organization has contacted each location, offering any medical aid assistance needed.  

Meanwhile, the Gifford Fire—now the state’s largest wildfire of the year—has burned nearly 100,000 acres across Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, significantly reducing air quality. Wildfire smoke contains fine particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs, aggravating asthma and worsening other respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. Children, older adults, and people with chronic health issues are especially vulnerable.  

Direct Relief’s Response 

To ensure resources are targeted where they’re needed most, Direct Relief has initiated coordination with the Ventura County Fire Department, Ventura County Office of Emergency Management, Search and Rescue Teams from both Ventura and Santa Clarity Valley, and public health departments in both Los Angeles and Ventura counties to support Canyon Fire response.  

On the Gifford Fire, the organization is working with the Santa Barbara County Office of Emergency Management and other Central Coast community partners to supply protective equipment, air purifiers, and emergency medical resources to evacuation points and community resource centers serving impacted residents. A particular focus has included supporting agricultural workers who continue to work outdoors despite poor air quality conditions. 

In the past week, Direct Relief has distributed 24,000 free N95 masks to residents across Santa Barbara County, including distributions in Buellton, as well as pick-up locations at the Santa Barbara Public Library and Direct Relief’s headquarters in Goleta. 

Earlier This Year: Rapid Support for LA Wildfire-Affected Communities 

When catastrophic wildfires swept through Los Angeles County in January 2025, Direct Relief mobilized within hours, delivering essential medicines to evacuation shelters and emergency medical packs to first responders on the front lines. Over the following weeks, the organization provided $12.7 million in medical and financial assistance to 65 community organizations, ranging from search-and-rescue teams to school-based groups supporting students coping with trauma. This swift, coordinated response built on Direct Relief’s longstanding partnerships with local health providers and emergency services, ensuring resources reached those most in need—both during the immediate crisis and in the months that followed. 

A Trusted Local and Statewide Partner 

Based in Santa Barbara for more than 75 years, Direct Relief has responded to major wildfires in California for several decades, from immediate relief during evacuations to long-term health recovery efforts. The organization’s ability to rapidly mobilize protective equipment, essential medicines, and support for health providers positions it as a critical partner in safeguarding community health during wildfire season. 

As the Canyon Fire continues to burn and the Gifford Fire’s smoke affects Central Coast communities, Direct Relief will remain engaged with local response networks to address emerging needs. 

The post Direct Relief Mobilizes Aid for the Canyon Fire in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties appeared first on Direct Relief.

The grant recipients include:

• TEXSAR (Texas Search and Rescue) – $50,000 to support volunteer-based flood and swiftwater rescue operations, including equipment and training needs.

• Texas EquuSearch – $50,000 to offset volunteer lodging and deployment costs during ongoing search and recovery missions.

• Center Point Volunteer Fire Department – $50,000 to support the purchase of a swiftwater rescue boat and to replace other supplies and equipment lost due to the fire station flooding.

• La Esperanza Clinic – $50,000 to expand mobile medical outreach and public health efforts for flood-affected communities in San Angelo and the Concho Valley.

• Frontera Healthcare Network – $50,000 to cover healthcare costs for flood survivors, provide mental health and other wraparound services to first responders, and give emergency cash assistance to health center staff experiencing serious financial impacts, enabling them to continue their work.

These grants are part of Direct Relief’s emergency response and ongoing work in Texas, which has included the delivery of more than $1 million in medical aid to clinics, health centers, and shelters across the state since July 4.

Medical Support for Texas

Direct Relief, a long-standing supporter of Texas’ healthcare safety net, has provided more than $300 million in medical aid and funding to the state over the past two decades.

In the immediate aftermath of the July flooding, Direct Relief delivered 8,890 lbs. of essential medical aid to communities across Texas, including:

• Insulin and other diabetes medications

• Antibiotics and infection treatments

• Thyroid and cardiovascular medications

• Respiratory support (inhalers, asthma meds)

• Mental health medications

• Pain relievers, allergy relief, infant formula, and personal care items

Direct Relief has worked closely with a wide network of partners to ensure aid reaches those most affected. This includes the Texas Association of Community Health Centers, which represents more than 650 sites across the state; the Texas Association of Charitable Clinics; the National Association of Community Health Centers; the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics; and the Mobile Healthcare Association. Direct Relief is also coordinating with clinics in Kerr, Travis, and other counties currently under the state’s disaster declaration.

Direct Relief’s response focuses on making sure people with ongoing health needs—including chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease—can keep getting their medications and care, even during times of disaster. The organization’s licensed medical distribution system helps quickly and safely deliver prescription medicines, including those that need refrigeration, directly to local health providers who know and serve their communities best.

As long-term recovery continues in Texas Hill Country, Direct Relief remains committed to supporting community-led efforts and ensuring healthcare remains accessible to those most affected—now and in the months ahead.

The post Direct Relief Awards $250,000 to Texas Organizations Responding to Catastrophic Flooding appeared first on Direct Relief.

Direct Relief is coordinating with the organization’s network of healthcare providers, first responder organizations, and international agencies across at-risk areas to assess needs and stands ready to provide emergency medical support and supplies should needs arise. In the United States, Direct Relief is in communication with the Hawaiʻi Primary Care Association and the Hawaiʻi Department of Health to assess potential medical needs and ensure readiness to support affected communities. Direct Relief is also in communication with the Northwest Regional Primary Care Association, which includes Alaska health centers.

In Japan, the organization is coordinating with Peace Winds Japan, a non-governmental disaster response organization, to evaluate needs on the ground and offer emergency medical supplies and support.

In the South Pacific, Direct Relief is coordinating with the Pacific Community, formerly the South Pacific Commission, as well as the Pacific Island Health Officers Association. 

As assessments across at-risk regions continue, Direct Relief stands ready to mobilize medical supplies and other requested assistance.

Direct Relief has a history of responding to tsunamis, including the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, during which the organization provided over $13.5 million in grants and $45.4 million in medicines, nutritional products, and emergency medical supplies to nearly 90 local healthcare partner organizations across Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, and Thailand. Following the 2011 Japan earthquake and tsunami, Direct Relief provided more than $5.5 million in grants to 13 Japanese aid groups to support relief and recovery efforts.

Direct Relief will continue to provide updates as the situation develops.

The post Emergency Update: Direct Relief Monitoring Tsunami Threats in Pacific appeared first on Direct Relief.

That trust carries a clear obligation: to ensure every contribution directly benefits the people and communities for whom it was intended. Direct Relief remains fully committed to transparency and accountability—to those whose generosity made this response possible, and to those still working to recover.

This report outlines the assistance provided over the past six months—both urgent and sustained—and reaffirms Direct Relief’s commitment to helping communities recover, rebuild, and prepare for the challenges ahead.

Direct Relief’s Response:

Six Months In

Burn zone re-entry kits from Direct Relief were delivered to the Los Angeles Fire Department. (Photo: Annie Vu/Direct Relief)

Direct Relief’s response began within hours of the fire’s first spark, with an initial focus on lifesaving support. This included the rapid deployment of prescription medications to shelters, the delivery of field medic backpacks to first responders, and the distribution of more than 140,000 N95 respirators to protect residents and emergency personnel from smoke and airborne hazards.

By the Numbers

(as of July 1, 2025)

$12.7 million in medical and financial assistance provided across the Los Angeles region over the past six months, including:

• $8 million in funding to 65 community organizations—from search and rescue teams to school-based groups supporting students coping with trauma
• $4.7 million in donated medical aid and supplies, including:
  • 146,000+ defined daily doses of medications for respiratory conditions, diabetes, mental health, cardiovascular issues, and skin-related injuries
  • 140,000+ 3M-donated N95 respirators
  • 16,000+ full-body protective gear kits for residents returning to burn zones

Evolving to Meet Shifting Needs

Since the wildfires began on January 7, 2025, Direct Relief’s approach has evolved alongside the communities it serves—shifting from urgent relief to sustained investment in recovery, health access, and locally led solutions.

This ongoing support has included:

• Mobile medical outreach in fire-affected neighborhoods, delivered through trusted partners like AltaMed Health Services, Medical Mission Adventures, and Venice Family Clinic
• Mental health services, including school-based crisis counseling, enrichment programs, and trauma-informed classroom recovery initiatives
• Community care for youth, seniors, and families navigating trauma, service disruptions, and prolonged displacement
• Rental assistance for displaced residents, recognizing that stable housing is foundational to long-term health and recovery

Direct Relief’s wildfire response is not a one-time deployment—it is a sustained, community-anchored effort. For many still rebuilding—physically and emotionally—recovery remains an ongoing challenge.

Strategic Focus:

Mental Health, Medical Care, Housing

Six months after the wildfires, emotional and psychological needs remain acute—especially among children and families facing prolonged disruption and loss. Recognizing this, Direct Relief has made targeted investments in trauma care, school-based mental health services, enrichment programs, and culturally responsive outreach through community partners and public-school foundations.

“Frankly, the whole community has been traumatized. Every time you look at the scorched mountains, it affects you.” 

– David Spiro, Director of Development at the Pasadena Educational Foundation

School-Based Mental Health and Educational Recovery

A student at the Pasadena Unified 2024 summer enrichment program displays a new drawing. (Photo by Molly O’Keeffe for the Pasadena Educational Foundation)

To support students, educators, and school communities across fire-affected areas, Direct Relief awarded $1.5 million in grants—$500,000 each to:

• Greater Los Angeles Education Foundation
• Pasadena Educational Foundation
• Los Angeles Unified School District Education Foundation

These grants are supporting:

• Crisis counseling for students, families, and school staff coping with trauma
• Summer enrichment programs serving more than 1,000 children across impacted districts
• Classroom recovery tools like calming corners and therapeutic storytelling
• Wellness resources for educators, many of whom lost their homes
• Climate resilience planning to help schools prepare for future wildfires and disasters

“You can’t teach a child unless you touch their heart…We want to help kids handle their emotions in a healthy way.”

– Sara Mooney, Interim Executive Director of the LAUSD Education Foundation

Read More: Mental Health Support, Summer Enrichment, and Mini-Grants Meet Growing Needs After L.A. Wildfires

Community-Based Youth Services

Direct Relief CEO Amy Weaver meets with Dorothy Simpson, CEO of Hope Now Community Resource Center, in Altadena, California, during a June 17, 2025, visit. (Tony Morain/Direct Relief)

To further support young people outside the classroom, Direct Relief awarded $300,000 across three local organizations providing trauma-informed mental health care:

• Foothill Family received $100,000 to expand counseling for 150 children and youth, along with parent education and wellness programming for another 150 individuals
• Hope Now Community Resource Center received $100,000 to serve transitional-age youth and seniors in Altadena and Pasadena, offering mental health access, case management, mentoring, and a summer youth program
• Young & Healthy received $100,000 to provide free, play-based family therapy for children ages 2–12 affected by the Eaton Fire, delivered in safe, developmentally appropriate settings with caregiver involvement

These efforts are designed to meet children and families in the places they already turn to for safety—schools, local nonprofits, and trusted community spaces—ensuring no one has to navigate trauma alone. 

Bolstering Healthcare Access in Fire-Affected Communities 

In addition to delivering emergency medical aid, Direct Relief has invested in long-term health infrastructure and outreach to ensure care remains uninterrupted for residents affected by the wildfires.

When the Eaton Fire broke out, hundreds of evacuees from Altadena and surrounding areas sought refuge at the Pasadena Convention Center, where five event halls were quickly transformed into emergency dormitories. More than 550 people arrived—many without their medications or basic medical supplies—needing urgent care.

Among the first to respond was the team from AltaMed Health Services, a nonprofit community health center with more than 55 years of service in Pasadena. Despite losing one of their own clinics to the fire—and with many staff members displaced from their homes—AltaMed mobilized immediately. Staff volunteered to provide triage, treatment, medications, and coordinate urgent transport for high-risk patients.

“These are our patients. Our neighbors. They trust us in our clinics, and they need to know we’re out here with them.”

– Fernando Fierro, Vice President of Nursing Services at AltaMed

Recognizing AltaMed’s vital role both in crisis and recovery, Direct Relief awarded over $1 million to support the organization’s response and long-term outreach. The funding supports:

• Three mobile health units to expand care in fire-impacted neighborhoods
• New staff members, including nurses, outreach workers, and a project manager to meet increased patient needs
• Culturally responsive recovery planning, guided by a newly established Community Advisory Board
• Point-of-care services, such as blood pressure and glucose screenings, immunizations, care navigation, and development of a centralized community resource hub

The initiative is expected to reach more than 20,000 patients, with a focus on those most affected by the fire—including older adults, individuals in temporary housing, and AltaMed’s existing patients.

“When a disaster happens, health care doesn’t stop. It can’t stop.”

– Fernando Fierro, Vice President of Nursing Services at AltaMed

Spotlight Stories

California Wildfires

Critical Medicines Bolster Urgent Care in the Halls of an Evacuation Shelter 

California Wildfires

An Eaton Fire First Responder Recalls Patients Fleeing the Fast-Growing Blaze

California Wildfires

Los Angeles Wildfires Leave Older Patients Vulnerable

Support for Housing Stability:

The Change Reaction

To help stabilize individuals and families displaced by the wildfires, Direct Relief awarded $500,000 to The Change Reaction, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit providing direct rental assistance and other housing support services.

“Stable housing is the foundation for recovery, and this funding will make a critical difference in the lives of many families struggling to get back on their feet. We are deeply grateful for Direct Relief’s generous support, which will allow us to continue to help those facing housing insecurity after the wildfires.”

– Wade Trimmer, President of The Change Reaction

Read More: As Altadena Homeowners Navigate Life Day to Day, Post Fire, Cash Support Becomes a Lifeline

In addition to emergency rental aid, The Change Reaction connects Los Angeles residents displaced by the fires with case management, mental health care, and access to critical resources—ensuring housing is not just a roof, but a launching point for long-term recovery.

Expanding the Definition of Disaster Recovery:

The Boys & Girls Club of Malibu

In Malibu, where wealth often masks deep inequities, the Boys & Girls Club has redefined what disaster response looks like—serving not just youth, but the broader community in the wake of the Franklin and Palisades Fires.

From January through early June 2025, the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu’s disaster relief center recorded over 3,300 visits, distributed $2 million in essential goods, and provided case management and mental health services to residents from 119 zip codes—many of them commuting workers or families living in informal housing who are ineligible for traditional assistance.

“Money helps, things help, but ultimately, what people need to recover is a connection to their community and to know they’ll be supported.”

– Ethan White, Data and Development Director for the Boys and Girls Club of Malibu

Read More: From After School to Aftermath: Boys and Girls Club of Malibu Filling Gaps in Fire Recovery

To support this expanded role, Direct Relief awarded $250,000 to fund integrated mental health services and long-term recovery support for fire-affected families.

What began as a youth mentorship program has evolved into one of Malibu’s only social service providers—employing licensed therapists, training graduate interns from UCLA and Boston College, and offering school-based mental health and wellness programs.

The people they serve often fall outside traditional disaster aid systems: domestic workers, renters, and families living in converted garages or trailers—many without the documentation required for federal or state relief.

“These are the people who maintain $100 million homes, but they’re invisible in most disaster plans.”

– Ethan White, Data and Development Director for the Boys and Girls Club of Malibu

In a region with no hospital, limited public transit, and minimal infrastructure, the Boys & Girls Club has filled critical gaps—proving that trusted, community-based organizations are essential to disaster recovery.

Looking Ahead:

Long-Term Recovery

Photo: Tony Morain/Direct Relief

Recovery from a disaster of this scale isn’t measured in weeks or months—it’s measured in years. Across Los Angeles County, some of the most difficult challenges are only now emerging: emotional trauma, housing instability, disrupted healthcare, and disconnection from vital services.

Direct Relief’s decades of experience responding to wildfires and other disasters has revealed a clear and recurring pattern: recovery is never linear, never quick, and never one-size-fits-all. It is layered, prolonged, and locally rooted. This understanding shapes Direct Relief’s approach—one that looks beyond immediate relief to support the long-term rebuilding of health systems, the strengthening of community networks, and preparation for future, compounding crises.

With California’s fire season now a year-round threat, Direct Relief’s support is designed to meet urgent needs today—and strengthen readiness for the challenges ahead.

Looking ahead, Direct Relief will continue to support: 

• Expanded access to mental health care through mobile clinics and school-based services
• Housing stabilization and financial assistance to help prevent displacement
• Ongoing distribution of essential medical resources to frontline providers
• Community-led recovery strategies that strengthen long-term resilience

Direct Relief remains committed to the people and communities affected by the Los Angeles fires—today, tomorrow, and for as long as recovery requires.

The post Six Months After the Los Angeles Fires: Direct Relief’s Commitment to Long-Term Recovery appeared first on Direct Relief.

“Direct Relief is deeply honored to receive the Partners in Development Award from the International Council of Nurses,” said Dr. Byron Scott, Direct Relief President and COO. “Nurses are the backbone of health systems worldwide and are especially critical during times of conflict and crisis. Supporting their safety, well-being, and ability to serve is fundamental to effective humanitarian action.”

“We are incredibly grateful to Direct Relief for this generous donation and for their ongoing partnership. This support comes at a time when nurses in conflict zones are experiencing unprecedented challenges,” said Howard Catton, ICN Chief Executive Officer. “Direct Relief’s commitment is not only a recognition of their courage, but a concrete action that will help sustain critical care in areas where it is most desperately needed.”

The acknowledgment was met with Direct Relief’s announcement of a new $100,000 commitment to ICN’s Nurses for Peace program, which supports national nursing associations in conflict-affected countries. The program helps ensure that nurses working in dangerous, unstable environments have the resources and backing needed to continue providing essential care to those in need.

“Through the Nurses for Peace program, ICN is providing a lifeline for nurses working in the most difficult environments imaginable,” said Dan Hovey, Vice President of Emergency Response. “Direct Relief is committed to standing with them and to investing in the leadership, resilience, and care that nurses bring to communities in crisis.”

Direct Relief’s support for the Nurses for Peace program aligns with its core emergency response strategy: working through local health providers to ensure that aid is fast, appropriate, and effective. Nurses’ local insight and clinical expertise are essential to achieving that goal.

Direct Relief’s President and COO Dr. Byron Scott, Chief Pharmacy Officer Alycia Clark, and Vice President of Emergency Response Dan Hovey represented the organization at the Congress, which brought together more than 6,500 nurses from around the world. During their visit, the delegation met with ICN leadership and representatives from national nursing associations to explore future collaboration opportunities focused on emergency response and frontline support.

This latest support builds on the partnership established in 2023 between Direct Relief and ICN, designed to strengthen humanitarian response through local nursing expertise. That collaboration included the appointment of an ICN Humanitarian Liaison Officer tasked with connecting ICN’s expansive global network of national nursing associations with Direct Relief’s logistics and supply operations.

The post Direct Relief Receives Global Honor from International Council of Nurses and Commits $100,000 to Support Nurses in Conflict Zones appeared first on Direct Relief.

In the PSA, Lynch lends her signature voice and presence to spotlight Direct Relief’s mission: improving the health and lives of people affected by poverty, disaster, and emergency situations.

“Every day across the United States and around the world, Direct Relief is making an enormous difference,” Lynch said. “If someone needs help, Direct Relief helps – no politics, no red tape.”

Her involvement underscores the urgent need to support frontline health efforts across the globe.

A passionate advocate for humanitarian causes, Lynch has supported Direct Relief for years, helping raise awareness of the organization’s global impact. That impact is significant—in the past year alone, Direct Relief delivered more than $1.8 billion in medical aid to health facilities in over 90 countries and all 50 U.S. states, including:

• More than 330 million defined daily doses of essential medications
• Support for over 2,600 healthcare facilities and frontline organizations
• Rapid response efforts in the wake of hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes, and global conflicts

“We’re incredibly grateful to Jane for using her platform to amplify this message,” said Amy Weaver, Chief Executive Officer. “Her voice helps shine a spotlight on the lifesaving work that happens every day—work that wouldn’t be possible without the support of donors and partners around the world.”

The PSA will run across digital platforms and select broadcast outlets starting this week.

The post Jane Lynch Stars in New Public Service Announcement for Direct Relief appeared first on Direct Relief.

The L.A. wildfires left thousands of residents displaced, exacerbating housing insecurity for many. As housing stability is a key determinant of health, this funding will address the urgent need for shelter, enabling individuals and families to maintain their homes while accessing healthcare, mental health services, and other critical resources needed to recover.

“Stable housing is foundational to both immediate recovery and long-term health,” said Dr. Byron Scott, CEO of Direct Relief. “In the wake of the wildfires, many families are not only confronting the trauma of losing their homes but also facing an uphill battle against housing insecurity that impacts their ability to access care, keep their jobs, and rebuild their lives. By strengthening rental assistance efforts, Direct Relief aims to support the stability individuals and families need to recover fully and regain their footing.”

The Change Reaction will use the funding to provide rental assistance to families at risk of homelessness, ensuring they can remain housed during their recovery. The organization also offers wraparound services such as case management, healthcare access, and mental health resources, playing a key role in supporting the long-term recovery of those affected.

“We are deeply grateful for Direct Relief’s generous support, which will allow us to continue to help those facing housing insecurity after the wildfires,” said Wade Trimmer, President of The Change Reaction. “Stable housing is the foundation for recovery, and this funding will make a critical difference in the lives of many families struggling to get back on their feet.”

This grant is part of Direct Relief’s broader commitment to supporting long-term recovery efforts for communities affected by the L.A. wildfires. By addressing the intersection of housing stability and health, Direct Relief continues to prioritize disaster recovery initiatives that support both immediate and long-term needs.

The post Direct Relief Announces $500,000 in Rental Assistance for Families Displaced by L.A. Wildfires with The Change Reaction appeared first on Direct Relief.

Funds for this critical initiative were raised in part by MusiCares during the 67th Annual GRAMMY Awards® telecast in February.

Immediate Response and Expanded Healthcare

The wildfires caused significant disruptions, leading to widespread evacuations and severely straining healthcare infrastructure across the region. Thousands of residents, particularly those uninsured or underinsured, face increased health challenges due to disruptions in housing, nutrition, and essential community services.

The initiative will support 15 community health centers and charitable clinics throughout Los Angeles, enabling them to:

• Expand healthcare services and extend operating hours to meet heightened demand.
• Provide critical care for chronic illnesses, mental health, and respiratory conditions exacerbated by wildfire smoke.
• Deliver preventive care and educational outreach in neighborhoods frequently underserved by traditional healthcare systems.
• Address housing instability, food insecurity, and emotional trauma recovery.

Comprehensive Support for Long-term Recovery

“Recovery from wildfires involves more than rebuilding physical infrastructure—it requires addressing complex social challenges such as housing instability, food insecurity, and healthcare disparities,” said Dr. Byron Scott, CEO at Direct Relief. “Community health centers and free and charitable clinics serve as vital anchors, providing not just medical care but comprehensive support including mental health counseling, housing assistance, and nutritional services. MusiCares’ generous funding will empower safety-net providers to continue delivering the holistic care that Los Angeles communities urgently need.”

Healthcare providers serving vulnerable populations have seen a dramatic surge in demand following wildfire-related displacement and health issues intensified by smoke exposure. This initiative specifically targets the health inequities amplified by the disaster, enhancing care for chronic conditions, mental health concerns, and respiratory health.

“As a community-focused health care leader, AltaMed understands that in times of crisis, it is vital to address the needs of the most vulnerable populations. We quickly mobilized to offer relief to individuals at the Pasadena evacuation center, providing medical care, behavioral health services, and social service support,” said Sharlene Risdon Jackson, Vice President of the AltaMed Foundation.

“As well as providing direct care, our role is to foster resilience and recovery within our community following disasters like the Eaton Fire, which present long-term environmental and social challenges. Partners like Direct Relief ensure that we can carry out this essential work. Direct Relief’s unwavering commitment and shared vision are crucial for rebuilding stronger, healthier communities.”

Strengthening Community Resilience

Beyond medical care, the grants will also help health centers and clinics provide crucial social support addressing housing instability, nutrition challenges, and emotional recovery from disaster-related trauma.

“Community health centers provided critical services to their communities throughout the devastating wildfires. Health center workers, despite being directly impacted by the wildfires, continued to serve others during the emergency,” said Louise McCarthy, President & CEO of Community Clinic Association of Los Angeles County. “Direct Relief has been a vital partner in emergency response. This grant will help bring financial relief to health care workers who continue to recover from the wildfires’ devastating impact.”

Direct Relief’s Response to Date

Direct Relief mobilized within hours after the fires erupted on January 7, providing critical support within hours. Since then, Direct Relief has assisted over 60 organizations across Los Angeles County with more than $7.5 million in medical aid and grants, including the funds announced today.

The post Direct Relief Announces $2.7 Million to Expand Healthcare Access to Los Angeles Residents appeared first on Direct Relief.

The funding will be used to deliver urgently needed medical resources and support frontline health providers caring for those affected by the disaster. Direct Relief is working in coordination with the ASEAN Coordinating Center for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management, or AHA Center, the region’s preeminent intergovernmental disaster response body.

Direct Relief maintains a formal collaboration agreement with the AHA Center, established to strengthen preparedness and enable faster, more effective humanitarian response across ASEAN member states. This partnership provides a critical framework for coordination and information sharing during emergencies, ensuring that aid is aligned with national priorities and reaches affected communities efficiently.

The organization has a long history of supporting communities impacted by major disasters in Southeast Asia and beyond, including responses to the Sulawesi and Lombok earthquakes in Indonesia (2018), Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines (2013), the Indian Ocean tsunami (2004), and repeated flooding and cyclone events throughout the region. Direct Relief has also responded to some of the most devastating earthquakes of the past two decades, including the 2010 Haiti earthquake, the 2015 Nepal earthquake, and the dual earthquakes that struck Turkey and Syria in 2023.

Health Risks from Earthquakes

Earthquakes typically cause various blunt trauma and orthopedic injuries, such as broken bones, lacerations, and crush syndrome from being trapped under heavy debris. An overwhelming number of injuries in the initial moments of an emergency can create an acute need for health personnel, medical supplies, blood, and medicines.

In addition to the acute medical needs resulting from the earthquake, people can become ill due to their lack of shelter, compromised water and sanitation systems, lack of refrigeration, and untreated injuries. These circumstances can lead to bacterial infections and disease outbreaks among people who are forced into temporary shelters.

Additional support and resources will be mobilized as assessments continue and needs evolve. Direct Relief remains committed to standing with communities impacted by this disaster and supporting the health workers on the frontlines of the response.

The post Direct Relief Commits $100,000 to Support Earthquake Response in Myanmar and Thailand appeared first on Direct Relief.

The powerful quake caused severe shaking across multiple countries, including Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Bangladesh, India, and China. In Bangkok, a 30-story building under construction collapsed, trapping at least 43 workers and causing an unknown number of casualties. In Myanmar, particularly in Mandalay, early reports indicate significant infrastructure damage and overwhelmed healthcare facilities. A 6.4-magnitude aftershock followed just 12 minutes after the initial event, increasing the risk of further damage and injuries.

In response, Direct Relief is mobilizing its emergency response efforts to support those affected in impacted countries and regionally. The organization’s established connection with the AHA Center enables rapid, coordinated response and effective communication in support of ASEAN member states. Direct Relief is also in contact with local partner organizations and healthcare providers to determine the immediate medical needs.

Direct Relief has responded to large-scale earthquakes in the region, including a 7.5-magnitude earthquake in Sulawesi, Indonesia, in 2018. Globally, the organization has also responded to devastating earthquakes, including in Haiti (2010) and Mexico (2017), and most recently the 2023 earthquakes that struck Turkey and Syria. The organization is committed to ensuring that frontline healthcare providers have the critical resources needed to treat the injured and prevent further loss of life.

As assessments continue, Direct Relief will provide updates and deploy additional support to meet evolving needs in the impacted areas.

The post Major Earthquake Rocks Myanmar and Thailand, Causing Widespread Damage appeared first on Direct Relief.

Direct Relief’s Wildfire Response 

Direct Relief is reaching out to its network of healthcare provider organizations to offer support and assess needs. The organization has extensive experience responding to wildfires across the U.S., providing essential medicines and supplies, N95 masks, and other essentials to healthcare facilities and first responders.  

Most recently, Direct Relief mobilized aid in response to the catastrophic Palisades and Eaton Fires that tore through Los Angeles in January. 

Health Risks of Wildfire Smoke 

Wildfires pose significant health risks, particularly through smoke inhalation. Wildfire smoke contains particulate matter and toxic gases, which can cause respiratory issues such as coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Individuals with existing respiratory issues including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or heart conditions are especially vulnerable, as exposure can exacerbate symptoms and increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.  

Studies have also linked prolonged exposure to wildfire smoke with increased mortality, adverse birth outcomes, and long-term respiratory conditions.  Children, the elderly, and those with preexisting health conditions face the greatest risks. 

As the wildfires in Oklahoma and Texas unfold, Direct Relief remains committed to supporting communities facing the devastating health and environmental impacts of wildfires. 

The post Wildfires Rage Across Oklahoma and Texas, Posing Severe Health Risks  appeared first on Direct Relief.

Direct Relief, a humanitarian nonprofit based in Santa Barbara, California, provided a grant of $7,745 through its Power for Health Initiative to assist with project costs. Additional funding was awarded through the California Public Utilities Commission’s Self-Generation Incentive Program. The project was developed with support from Swell Energy and implemented by SePac Energy Systems, Inc., who provided engineering, procurement, and construction services.

Owned and operated by Diabetes Youth Families (DYF), a Concord, California-based nonprofit, Bearskin Meadow Camp’s new battery system powers key facilities, including the medical center and kitchen. These upgrades are particularly critical given the camp’s remote location, where power disruptions are frequent.

Critical Backup for Vital Needs

DYF estimates the backup power system will prevent annual losses of $10,000 by ensuring uninterrupted operation during power outages. Since the installation of the initial batteries on one electricity meter at the camp in December 2023, it has already proven essential during outages experienced in July 2024.

Loss of power can render temperature-sensitive medications, like insulin, unusable—a potentially devastating situation for a camp dedicated to children managing diabetes. Reliable power is essential for charging medical devices, maintaining refrigeration for medicines, and ensuring the safety and well-being of campers.

“DYF works hard to ensure the safety and well-being of every camper at Bearskin Meadow Camp and is always seeking to improve our systems to achieve that. The addition of these backup batteries is a monumental step in our goal to provide a secure environment for children and families living with diabetes,” said Davey Warner, Executive Director of DYF. “With this system, we can ensure uninterrupted power for essential medical needs and create peace of mind for parents, staff, and campers alike. This advancement underscores our commitment to resilience, innovation, and community care. We are incredibly grateful for the support of Direct Relief in this endeavor.”

A Long-Standing Partnership

Direct Relief has been a trusted partner of DYF since 2013, providing Bearskin Meadow Camp with over $130,000 worth of essential diabetes management supplies, including blood glucose test strips, monitoring systems, lancets, syringes, glucagon, epinephrine, sharps containers, alcohol swabs, and bandages.

Bearskin Meadow Camp is one of 54 sites nationwide to receive grant funding through Direct Relief’s Power for Health Initiative, which enhances resilience for health-focused organizations through renewable power solutions. To date, Bearskin Meadow Camp is the only diabetes-focused camp in the U.S. to receive Direct Relief’s support for backup battery power.

“Bearskin Meadow Camp needs energy resiliency more than the average summer camp due to the vulnerability of the population it serves yet faces greater challenges due to its ultra-remote location,” said Tim Boris, Vice President of Programs at Direct Relief. “By uniting Direct Relief’s ongoing diabetes care support with the addition of a Power for Health energy storage system, this project demonstrates the optimal combination of two of Direct Relief’s signature programs. With the facility’s added resilience, parents and counselors can rest assured that their kids will stay healthy, and their insulin will stay safe, even if the power goes out.”

Supporting Resilience and Community

Direct Relief’s Power for Health Initiative focuses on enhancing the resilience of health facilities serving vulnerable communities by equipping them with renewable energy systems, including solar and battery storage. This initiative ensures that critical services remain operational during power outages, which are increasingly common due to wildfires and grid instability. By supporting facilities such as community clinics, telehealth hubs, and nonprofit organizations like Bearskin Meadow Camp, the initiative not only safeguards access to life-saving care but also promotes sustainability and energy equity.

To date, Direct Relief has funded 21 projects across California that strengthen health systems while reducing reliance on traditional energy sources.

Summer camps and family retreats like Bearskin Meadow Camp empower children and caregivers to adapt to life with diabetes, offering opportunities for education, connection, and fun. The new battery system enhances the camp’s ability to provide these experiences with confidence, ensuring it is ready to welcome campers, families, and staff for a resilient summer season in June 2025.

The post Summer Camp for Youth with Type 1 Diabetes Receives Battery Backup System, Ensuring Resilient Power appeared first on Direct Relief.

Since the wildfires began, Direct Relief has mobilized critical medical aid, supplying thousands of air-purifying masks, respiratory protection gear, and essential medications to protect residents and frontline responders. The organization has also provided financial assistance to community health centers serving displaced families and those in need of urgent medical care.

“For communities devastated by the Los Angeles wildfires, the road to recovery will be long, and the need for support will not end when the flames are extinguished,” said Direct Relief CEO Dr. Byron Scott. “Direct Relief is committed to ensuring that those affected—whether displaced families, frontline responders, or healthcare providers—receive the medical care, essential supplies, and ongoing support they need today and for as long as it takes to rebuild. This partnership strengthens our ability to stand with these communities in their time of greatest need.”

Expanding Support for Wildfire-Affected Communities

Through this partnership, donations raised during the GRAMMY Awards broadcast will be directed toward organizations actively providing aid:

• Direct Relief is supplying medical resources, protective equipment, and financial support to community health centers treating those affected by the fires.

• California Community Foundation has awarded over $15 million in grants to more than 130 local nonprofits working on wildfire relief and recovery.

• Pasadena Community Foundation is supporting those impacted by the Eaton Fire in Altadena and Pasadena through its Eaton Fire Relief & Recovery Fund, which has already distributed more than $8 million to local organizations.

• MusiCares Fire Relief provides direct assistance to music professionals affected by the wildfires.

“In addition to raising money for music people, we are proud to add these three incredible partners who are supporting the Los Angeles region in other ways to maximize our efforts of aiding those impacted by this crisis,” said Recording Academy and MusiCares CEO Harvey Mason Jr. “We are so grateful to these organizations for their collaboration and look forward to bringing music professionals and fans together on Sunday, Feb. 2, to help rebuild and uplift Los Angeles and its people.”

How to Contribute

To support music professionals and others impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires, donations can be made at GRAMMY.com/firerelief. To contribute specifically to MusiCares’ relief efforts for music industry professionals, visit MusiCares.org/firerelief.

Direct Relief remains committed to ensuring those affected by the Los Angeles wildfires receive the medical care and essential supplies they need to recover and rebuild.

The post Direct Relief Joins Recording Academy® and MusiCares® in Expanding Fire Relief Efforts for Los Angeles Communities During 67th GRAMMY Awards® Telecast appeared first on Direct Relief.

Firefighters are working tirelessly to contain the blazes, which continue to threaten homes and communities across the region. The most dangerous conditions are expected to persist through today, with gusts up to 100 mph in some areas, according to the National Weather Service.

Direct Relief’s Preparedness and Response Efforts

Direct Relief has activated its emergency response protocols and is in communication with local health providers and emergency management teams in the affected areas.

The organization is currently deploying medical aid, including emergency medical supplies for first responders and displaced residents, and respiratory protection equipment, including N95 respirators, to mitigate health risks from smoke exposure.

Supporting Fire-Affected Communities

Direct Relief has a long-standing commitment to supporting communities affected by wildfires. In recent years, the organization has:

• Delivered more than $6 million in medical aid during the 2021 wildfire season.

• Supplied critical resources, such as oxygen concentrators, air purifiers, and medical equipment, to health centers in fire-prone areas.

• Provided grants to local health organizations for ongoing recovery efforts.

Health Impacts of Wildfires

Wildfires not only destroy homes and infrastructure but also have significant and long-lasting effects on public health. As wildfires become more frequent and severe, the health risks to individuals and communities continue to grow, particularly for those already vulnerable.

Health impacts of wildfires include:

• Long-Term Exposure Risks: Prolonged exposure to poor air quality caused by wildfire smoke can have cumulative effects, including developmental impacts on children and worsening of chronic diseases.

• Respiratory Illnesses: Smoke from wildfires contains harmful fine particulate matter (PM2.5) that can penetrate deep into the lungs, exacerbating asthma, bronchitis, and other chronic respiratory conditions.

• Cardiovascular Strain: Exposure to wildfire smoke is linked to an increased risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular issues, particularly for older adults and those with pre-existing conditions.

• Mental Health Effects: The trauma of evacuation, loss of homes, and disruption to daily life can lead to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

• Displacement and Health Access: Evacuations often disrupt access to essential medications, medical care, and support services, disproportionately affecting those in underserved communities.

Why Direct Relief Focuses on Communities Impacted by Wildfires

Direct Relief prioritizes wildfire response because these disasters often exacerbate existing health inequities. Communities that lack access to healthcare and resources are disproportionately affected by wildfires, both during and after the event.

Immediate Support for First Responders and Health Centers: Wildfires place immense pressure on local healthcare systems. Direct Relief ensures first responders and health providers have access to the emergency medical supplies and equipment needed to save lives.

Smoke Mitigation Resources: Providing N95 masks, air purifiers, and oxygen concentrators helps protect respiratory health in affected areas, particularly for those with pre-existing conditions.

Focus on Underserved Populations: By supporting community health centers and free clinics, Direct Relief ensures those who are uninsured or underinsured receive care during emergencies.

Recovery and Resilience: After the flames are extinguished, the organization continues to support long-term recovery efforts by funding health services, replacing damaged medical supplies, and helping communities rebuild healthcare infrastructure.

Direct Relief’s commitment to wildfire-affected communities is rooted in the understanding that disasters impact health in profound ways. By equipping healthcare providers and delivering targeted aid, the organization works to alleviate the immediate and long-term health challenges caused by wildfires.

As the Southern California fires continue to spread, Direct Relief remains ready to assist communities and healthcare providers on the front lines.

The post As Southern California Fires Rage, Medical Aid En Route appeared first on Direct Relief.

A severe red flag warning remains in effect for much of Los Angeles and Ventura counties due to dangerous offshore winds and dry vegetation. Wind gusts have reached up to 80 mph in some areas, with potential for gusts as high as 100 mph through Wednesday, further intensifying wildfire risk.

Direct Relief’s Response

Direct Relief is closely monitoring the situation and has reached out with offers of support to Los Angeles County, the regional primary care association, and community health centers and free clinics operating in areas impacted by the fire and smoke.

Offers of assistance have also been sent to the California Office of Emergency Services, Southern California Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, and other organizations responding.

Direct Relief’s History of Wildfire Response

Direct Relief has a long history of responding to wildfires in California, from the devastating 2018 Camp Fire to recent fires including the Mountain Fire in Ventura County. The organization, based in Southern California, maintains a robust inventory of medications, personal protective equipment including N-95 respirators, and other supplies commonly requested during wildfires.

Through partnerships with local agencies and healthcare facilities, the organization has provided personal protective equipment, medical supplies, and financial support to aid communities impacted by wildfires.

Direct Relief remains ready to respond to the Palisades Fire and to continue supporting impacted communities as conditions continue to unfold.

The post Palisades Fire Erupts Amid Extreme Fire Conditions in Southern California appeared first on Direct Relief.

Cyclone Chido has been described as the most powerful storm to hit Mayotte in over 90 years. The French overseas department, located between Madagascar and Mozambique, was battered by wind speeds exceeding 140 miles per hour and storm surges as high as 28 feet, which wiped out entire neighborhoods, particularly informal settlements housing undocumented migrants. While the official death toll in Mayotte is currently reported as 22, casualty estimates are already in the thousands and expected to rise as assessments continue. 

In neighboring Comoros, Cyclone Chido delivered similarly devastating winds and heavy rainfall, leaving extensive destruction across the island chain. Comoros President Azali Assoumani declared a week of mourning for lives lost, noting the country’s infrastructure had sustained “enormous” damage. Mozambique, already vulnerable to severe weather, faced Chido’s full force as the storm made landfall in Cabo Delgado province. Winds of over 160 miles per hour and torrential rains damaged homes, infrastructure, and health facilities across the region. 

Direct Relief is working to assess the needs of affected communities. In Mayotte, the organization is in communication with French emergency first response agencies to address opportunities for supporting immediate healthcare needs. In Comoros, Direct Relief is working with its long-standing partner Santé Diabète, a French NGO focused on diabetes prevention and care, to assess the situation and provide support. Outreach to Mozambique’s Ministry of Health is ongoing, with Direct Relief offering emergency medical supplies and logistical support as damage assessments are finalized. 

Meanwhile, in the Pacific, the island nation of Vanuatu was struck by a powerful 7.3-magnitude earthquake. Though damage assessments are still underway, reports indicate widespread destruction to homes, public infrastructure, and healthcare facilities, with aftershocks posing continued risks. Direct Relief has begun coordinating with healthcare partners in Vanuatu to determine the most urgent needs and provide assistance, with a shipment of emergency medicines and medical supplies en route to the island nation this week. 

Why These Disasters Are So Dangerous to Human Health 

Disasters like earthquakes and cyclones present immediate and long-term threats to human health. Severe storms and earthquakes often cause mass casualties, injuries from trauma, and infrastructure collapse that can overwhelm local health systems. In the aftermath, communities face additional risks: 

• Disease Outbreaks: Flooding from cyclones contaminates water sources, increasing the spread of cholera, malaria, and other waterborne diseases. 

• Displacement: The destruction of homes and healthcare facilities forces people into overcrowded shelters with limited sanitation, increasing the risk of communicable diseases. 

• Chronic Health Disruptions: Access to care for chronic diseases, such as diabetes or hypertension, is often interrupted, putting vulnerable individuals at risk. 

• Maternal and Infant Health: Pregnant women and infants are especially at risk when health services are disrupted, as emergency obstetric care becomes harder to access. 

Direct Relief works to address these challenges by ensuring that essential medical supplies, from trauma kits to vaccines, reach healthcare providers on the frontlines. 

Direct Relief’s Ongoing Commitment to Disaster Response 

Direct Relief has a long history of responding to some of the world’s most devastating natural disasters, ensuring critical medical resources reach those in need.  Following Cyclone Idai in 2019, the organization delivered over 100 tons of medical aid to Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Malawi. In Vanuatu, Direct Relief has supported health systems for years, delivering emergency medical supplies after both cyclones and earthquakes. By pre-positioning resources and partnering with frontline healthcare providers, Direct Relief ensures that when disasters strike, communities receive the timely medical assistance they need. 

Earthquakes: 

• In Türkiye and Syria, following the catastrophic 7.8-magnitude earthquake in February 2023, Direct Relief delivered more than 1,000 tons of medical aid, including field medical kits, trauma supplies, and cold-chain vaccines to frontline responders. Direct Relief also provided grants to support health facilities and organizations leading recovery efforts. 

• After the 2015 Nepal earthquake, which killed thousands and devastated infrastructure, Direct Relief partnered with local healthcare providers to deliver emergency medical supplies, including essential medicines and equipment for trauma care. 

• Following the 2010 Haiti earthquake, one of the deadliest in recent history, Direct Relief supplied over $70 million in medical aid, supported Haitian health organizations and helped rebuild clinics and hospitals. 

Cyclones, Hurricanes, and Typhoons: 

• In 2019, Cyclones Idai and Kenneth tore through Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Malawi, destroying homes, crops, and health facilities, while causing a widespread cholera outbreak. Direct Relief provided over 100 tons of emergency medical aid, focusing on trauma care, infectious disease prevention, and maternal health. Direct Relief also provided analysis support to WHO and the Ministry of Health of Mozambique for their cholera vaccination campaign in Pemba. 

• After Hurricane Dorian devastated the Bahamas in 2019, Direct Relief delivered medical supplies to clinics and hospitals, helping local providers care for displaced and injured residents. 

• In 2013, when Typhoon Haiyan struck the Philippines—one of the most powerful tropical cyclones ever recorded—Direct Relief responded immediately with emergency shipments of medical aid and long-term support to rebuild health systems in affected areas. 

• Direct Relief also has an ongoing hurricane preparedness program that pre-positions medical supplies in high-risk areas ahead of cyclone and hurricane seasons, including the Caribbean, the Gulf Coast, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific. 

Through these efforts, Direct Relief has delivered billions of dollars in medical aid and partnered with local organizations to rebuild healthcare systems, ensuring that disaster-hit communities have access to essential care both during emergencies and throughout recovery. 

As impacts from Cyclone Chido and the Vanuatu earthquake continue to unfold, Direct Relief remains committed to supporting healthcare providers on the ground, helping communities recover, and ensuring life-saving medical care reaches those most in need. 

The post Cyclone Chido, Vanuatu Earthquake Leave Devastation in Their Wake  appeared first on Direct Relief.

Direct Relief, headquartered approximately 60 miles northwest of Malibu, is well-positioned to respond swiftly to the evolving crisis. With a longstanding history of aiding communities affected by California wildfires, including the recent Mountain Fire in Camarillo, Direct Relief is once again mobilizing to provide critical support. During the Mountain Fire, the organization supplied essential items like N-95 respirators to combat hazardous air quality and delivered medical supplies to those displaced by the disaster.

As the Franklin Fire continues to spread, Direct Relief is actively coordinating with local authorities and emergency responders to assess immediate needs. Resources are being prepared to ensure that affected individuals receive timely and effective assistance during this critical time.

Direct Relief will continue to provide updates as information becomes available.

The post Franklin Fire Scorches 2,200 Acres in Malibu, Direct Relief Mobilizes Wildfire Response appeared first on Direct Relief.

These projects, funded through a $464,115 grant from humanitarian aid organization Direct Relief, were completed as part of its Power for Health Initiative, designed to help healthcare facilities stay operational during emergencies and reduce their environmental impact.

Strengthening Local Healthcare Resilience

The communities of Clinton and Tabor City face unique challenges, including frequent power outages caused by hurricanes and severe weather. This year’s active hurricane season demonstrated the need for resilient power systems that allow clinics to continue serving patients during emergencies.

• At the Fairview Clinic in Clinton, which serves over 5,000 patients annually, the new solar and battery system provides full building backup power. On its best days, it offsets more than half of the clinic’s energy usage while reducing greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to taking 54,000 miles of vehicle traffic off the road.

• At the Tabor City Clinic, which serves nearly 3,000 patients annually, a similar system delivers critical backup power and offsets 61% of the clinic’s energy usage. During Hurricane Helene in October 2024, when the area lost power for two hours, the clinic seamlessly transitioned to backup power, ensuring no interruptions in care.

“The very generous grant funding for solar panel projects provided by Direct Relief ensure that we can maintain operations in rural areas to serve needy populations in a section of the country highly susceptible to hurricanes,” said Greg Bounds, PhD, Executive Director of Goshen Medical Center. “We very often, and increasingly in recent years, have lost electrical power due to hurricane damage along the flood plains of eastern North Carolina. We are very grateful for the assistance that enabled such very important investments.”

Supporting Those Who Need It Most

As part of North Carolina’s largest community health center network, Goshen Medical Center prioritizes care for rural, low-income, and underserved populations, including migrant farm workers, public housing residents, and the uninsured.

“These new systems provide peace of mind for communities and their healthcare providers,” said Sara Rossi, Managing Director of Direct Relief’s Health Resiliency Fund. “They ensure that people in Clinton, Tabor City, and beyond can access the care they need, and that Goshen Medical Center can continue to provide that care, even during the most challenging circumstances.”

Building a Sustainable Future for Community Health

In addition to bolstering resilience, the solar and battery installations contribute to a more sustainable future:

• Both systems are fully green, requiring no diesel generators, and reduce carbon emissions equivalent to the impact of planting 26 acres of forest.

• The energy cost savings – estimated at $3,500 annually for Fairview and $3,800 for Tabor City – can be redirected toward patient care.

The installations were developed in partnership with American Microgrid Solutions, with Eagle Solar & Light handling procurement and construction. Additionally, both clinics have applied for rebates from Duke Energy, with Tabor City already receiving $13,500.

A Community Investment That Pays Dividends

Direct Relief, a global humanitarian organization, has been a longstanding partner of Goshen Medical Center. Since 2016, the organization has provided over $1.2 million in support to help the health center network deliver care to more than 52,000 patients annually.

The completion of these projects underscores the importance of investing in community resilience, particularly for healthcare facilities serving those who rely on them most.

“We’re thrilled to bring this critical resource to the communities of Clinton and Tabor City,” said Rossi. “Together, we’re making sure that healthcare access is one thing people can count on, no matter what challenges arise.”

The post Powering Healthcare Access in Eastern North Carolina: New Solar and Battery Systems Bolster Community Clinics appeared first on Direct Relief.

Medications and supplies shipped this week included prenatal vitamins, cancer treatment therapies, personal protective equipment, field medic packs for triage care, diabetes management medications, and more.

Continued Response to Historic Flooding in Spain

Earlier this month, the Spanish province of Valencia experienced unprecedented rainfall and flooding, causing widespread damage and displacing thousands of residents. In response, Direct Relief provided a $135,000 emergency cash grant to Bomberos Unidos Sin Fronteras, or BUSF, a Spanish search and rescue organization, to support their deployment to the affected region.

The 17-member BUSF emergency response team recently concluded its operations, which focused on search and rescue efforts, medical evacuations, and clearing critical infrastructure to restore emergency logistics. The grant from Direct Relief enabled the team’s mobilization and funded essential equipment, including water pumps and generators.

In the aftermath of the acute response phase, BUSF is planning to collaborate with the local Red Cross and other agencies to address ongoing health and water, sanitation, and hygiene needs. To support these efforts, Direct Relief is preparing a shipment of 36 field medic backpacks and 200 personal care kits with hygiene items such as soap and shampoo.

Direct Relief remains committed to supporting those impacted by these disasters and adapting its response efforts to meet evolving global needs.

Protective Equipment Departs for Health Workers Battling Mpox

As part of its ongoing efforts to combat the mpox outbreak in Africa, Direct Relief is preparing to ship mpox response kits to support health efforts as cases surpassed 50,000 across the continent last week.

Since the outbreak began, Direct Relief has partnered with Jericho Road and the Wellness Clinic at New Hope Center in Goma to provide critical support. This has included grant funding that enables Jericho Road staff to treat patients in internally displaced persons camps and curb the disease’s spread.

Direct Relief’s mpox response kits contain essential medical resources, including personal protective equipment such as gloves, gowns, N-95 masks, goggles, and shoe covers to protect up to 100 healthcare workers. Each kit also contains medications for pain management and skin irritation, wound care supplies, and disinfectant wipes for up to 1,000 patients.

Bomb Cyclone Slams Pacific Coast

Northern California and the Pacific Northwest are experiencing heavy rain, damaging winds, and rising snow levels from a strong atmospheric river and bombogenesis (“bomb cyclone”), lasting through Friday and possibly lingering through the weekend. Storm-impacted communities in the region are expecting power outages, flash floods, and potential mudslides.

Direct Relief has been in touch with the California Office of Emergency Services, state and regional primary care associations, health centers, and clinics in impacted areas.

When It Matters Most, Direct Relief Delivers

Operational Snapshot

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 438 shipments containing 577K doses of medication during the past seven days to organizations, including the following:

Around the World

Globally, Direct Relief shipped over 2.7M defined daily doses of medication totaling 31,246 lbs., to countries including the following:

YEAR TO DATE

Since January 1, 2024, Direct Relief has delivered 22.3K shipments to 2,313 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 88 countries. These shipments contained 374.9M defined daily doses of medication valued at $1.5B (wholesale) and totaled 4.8M lbs.

The post Recovery Continues in Spain After Deadly Flooding appeared first on Direct Relief.

This agreement will enable Direct Relief to supply critical medical and emergency resources in collaboration with NJ OEM, supporting the agency’s statewide response efforts as well as the New Jersey Task Force, or NJ-TF1, one of 28 federal FEMA Urban Search and Rescue teams. This partnership comes at a critical time, as wildfires continue to burn across parts of New Jersey and New York, heightening the need for timely and effective response.

NJ OEM has already requested 100 field medic packs and 200 personal care kits stocked with hygiene items from Direct Relief. These essential supplies will be distributed by impacted county emergency management offices to support those directly affected by the fires. This collaboration with NJ OEM exemplifies Direct Relief’s focus on enhancing preparedness and response capabilities in states facing urgent crises.

Supporting Emergency Management Agencies

This agreement is Direct Relief’s second formal partnership with a state emergency management office.

Since 2010, Direct Relief has collaborated closely with the California Office of Emergency Services to deliver targeted aid during emergencies, allowing for critical support to communities in need beyond Direct Relief’s traditional free and charitable clinic network.

Through the partnership with NJ OEM, Direct Relief aims to expand this model, extending its support for local and regional disaster response, and specifically aiding NJ-TF1, which deploys nationwide to assist communities in crisis, as demonstrated in past hurricane responses in North Carolina and Florida.

Direct Relief’s collaboration with NJ OEM underscores the organization’s mission to be a ready and proactive partner in emergency preparedness and response, empowering local agencies and ensuring swift, efficient aid when disaster strikes.

The post As Wildfires Blaze in New Jersey, Direct Relief Equips First Responders appeared first on Direct Relief.

Continued rainfall and widespread damage have hindered initial relief efforts and limited access to the hardest-hit areas. On Saturday, BUSF deployed an initial team of emergency responders and medical personnel to assess the situation, and they have since proposed a larger, coordinated response scheduled to begin on November 5. Over the coming week, this expanded team will work closely with the Provincial Valencia government, local fire departments, and other civil protection agencies to deliver urgently needed assistance to affected communities.

Direct Relief and BUSF have a strong history of collaboration in response to disasters. In 2023, Direct Relief provided emergency cash support to BUSF during their response to the Morocco earthquake, enabling BUSF to provide critical assistance in Morocco’s hardest-hit areas. This new grant builds on that shared commitment to providing rapid, lifesaving aid when and where it’s needed most.

As rescue efforts continue in Valencia, Direct Relief and BUSF will work together to ensure that essential resources reach affected communities swiftly, helping residents recover and rebuild from this devastating event.

The post Direct Relief Supports First Responders in Spain After Devastating Floods appeared first on Direct Relief.

The newly installed systems at the Free Clinic of Simi Valley (FCSV) and Community Health Centers of the Central Coast’s (CHC) Skyway Telehealth Center in Santa Maria will provide these clinics with resilient, renewable backup power, reducing their carbon footprints and generating significant cost savings while ensuring continuity of patient care in the event of power disruptions.

The Power for Health Initiative provides grant funding to healthcare providers across the United States and its territories to cover the design and installation of clean, renewable energy solutions, as well as five years of operations and maintenance. By supporting the installation of solar power systems and energy storage systems, Direct Relief is helping health centers increase their resilience and sustainability in the face of a changing climate and aging electrical infrastructure.

Free Clinic of Simi Valley Reaches Net Zero with Solar Installation

The Free Clinic of Simi Valley, a free and charitable clinic that provides healthcare and other social services to medically underserved residents of Ventura County, has achieved a major sustainability milestone with the installation of a 53.3 kW rooftop solar array. With 135 solar panels now covering 100% of the clinic’s electricity needs, the clinic is officially net zero in terms of carbon emissions.

Funded by a $165,000 unrestricted grant from Direct Relief, the solar power system is expected to save the clinic $20,000 annually in energy costs. These savings will be reinvested into expanding patient services, allowing the clinic to better serve its community while reducing its environmental impact. Since the system became operational, FCSV has used its savings to enhance programs for uninsured and underinsured patients, including medical, dental, counseling, and legal services.

“The Free Clinic of Simi Valley has been a lifeline for thousands of people in our community who might otherwise have nowhere to turn for healthcare,” said Fred Bauermeister, Executive Director of the Free Clinic of Simi Valley. “This solar project not only strengthens our resilience against power outages – an ever more common occurrence in our area – but it also aligns with our commitment to protecting the health of our environment.”

As a key healthcare provider in Ventura County, FCSV handles more than 10,000 patient visits annually and is one of the only local providers of children’s vaccines, which must be stored at specific temperatures to remain viable. The clinic serves patients who are often left behind by the traditional healthcare system, including the working poor who do not qualify for Medi-Cal but cannot afford private health insurance. In fact, 57% of FCSV’s patients are best served in a language other than English.

In the coming months, FCSV plans to further strengthen its power resilience by adding battery storage, ensuring critical services continue during any power disruptions.

“With power outages on the rise across California due to increasingly frequent disasters and emergencies, resilient power projects are no longer a luxury—they’re a necessity. These systems ensure that critical healthcare providers can continue serving their communities, even when the grid goes down,” said Thomas Tighe, Direct Relief CEO. “Direct Relief is committed to expanding access to reliable energy so that lifesaving care remains uninterrupted, protecting the health and well-being of Californians in their times of greatest need.”

The solar system was developed with the technical support of American Microgrid Solutions and installed by GRID Alternatives, a nonprofit solar installer. This is the first Power for Health Initiative project completed at a free or charitable clinic in the mainland United States.

Community Health Centers of the Central Coast Bolsters Telehealth Operations with Solar Power

In Santa Maria, Community Health Centers of the Central Coast (CHC) has installed a new rooftop solar power and battery energy storage system at its Skyway Telehealth Center, funded by a $305,000 unrestricted grant from Direct Relief. The system will power the facility’s telehealth operations, which provide critical remote healthcare services to patients across northern Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. The solar installation ensures that even during power outages, CHC’s telehealth services will remain available, connecting patients to vital healthcare services from the safety of their homes.

Telehealth has become a crucial component of healthcare delivery, particularly for those in rural or underserved areas who face barriers to accessing in-person care. CHC’s telehealth hub serves thousands of patients each year, providing remote consultations, mental health services, and chronic disease management. The solar power system at this facility will further enhance the clinic’s ability to provide uninterrupted care, even as climate-related disruptions to the grid become more common.

“This system will not only reduce our carbon footprint but also ensure that we can continue to serve our patients without interruption, especially in times of crisis,” said Dr. Steven Clarke, CHC’s Medical Director.

The solar array is part of Direct Relief’s ongoing efforts to build resilience at healthcare facilities that serve low-income, high-need populations. By reducing operational costs through solar power, CHC will be able to reinvest savings into expanding telehealth services and enhancing patient care.

The Power for Health Initiative

The new solar installation at the Free Clinic of Simi Valley and the solar and storage system at Community Health Centers of the Central Coast were funded by grants from Direct Relief’s Power for Health Initiative, which supports health centers and free clinics as they transition to renewable, resilient energy solutions. This Initiative supports the design, installation, operations, and maintenance of customized resilient backup power systems at Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), free and charitable clinics, and other community health facilities across the U.S. and around the world.

By reducing health centers’ reliance on traditional, carbon-emitting energy sources and eliminating downtime during power outages, the Power for Health Initiative enables partners to remain operational during emergencies, continuing to serve communities in need. To date, the Initiative has supported the installation of solar and energy storage systems at 22 clinics in disaster-prone areas and underserved communities in California, Louisiana, North Carolina, and Puerto Rico, with dozens of projects in the design and construction stages.

The post Direct Relief Supports Resilience and Sustainability at Two California Clinics with New Solar Installations appeared first on Direct Relief.

As part of the organization’s hurricane emergency response, Direct Relief CEO Thomas Tighe arrived in Jacksonville Tuesday morning to assist in delivering last-minute essential medicines and supplies to health providers on the ground.

“Given the intensity of Hurricane Milton and its path across heavily populated areas, there is a heightened need for rapid response and access to essential medicines and medical supplies,” said Tighe. “This storm presents a serious threat to both lives and health systems, especially for those who are already underserved. Direct Relief’s focus remains on providing immediate, life-saving support to those who need it most, ensuring that health facilities remain operational and well-stocked as the storm bears down.”

Direct Relief has pre-positioned emergency medical supplies at healthcare facilities throughout Florida, which will be vital in maintaining care during and after the storm. These supplies include essential medicines, antibiotics, chronic disease medications, and medical kits for trauma and emergency care. As the storm progresses, Direct Relief is working closely with local and national partners to assess needs and ensure that aid is delivered swiftly and effectively.

Direct Relief remains committed to supporting health systems in the face of disasters, ensuring that people continue to have access to critical medical care when it’s needed most.

The post Direct Relief Statement on Hurricane Milton Response Efforts appeared first on Direct Relief.

Hurricane Helene has left a trail of devastation, with widespread flooding, extensive power outages, and significant infrastructure damage in both states. The destruction has created major roadblocks to healthcare access, leaving vulnerable populations, including those with chronic health conditions, struggling to obtain the care they need. Many health centers, free clinics, and charitable pharmacies have been forced to close or operate with limited resources due to damaged facilities, flooded roads, and unstable power supplies, further exacerbating the crisis.

The emergency grants provided by Direct Relief will enable health centers to restore operations quickly by covering the costs of critical supplies, medications, staffing, and other resources necessary to continue serving their patients. With the support of these funds, the centers can maintain care for those who depend on them for services ranging from chronic disease management and mental health support to prenatal care and emergency medical treatment.

The grant recipient organizations are:

• AppHealthcare, Sparta, NC

• Appalachian Mountain Health, Asheville, NC

• Blue Ridge Health, Hendersonville, NC

• Community Care Clinic, Salisbury, NC

• Good Samaritan Clinic, Morganton, NC

• High Country Community Health, Boone, NC

• Hot Springs Health Program, Marshall, NC

• Kintegra Health, Gastonia, NC

• Mountain Area Health Education Center, Asheville, NC

• Mountain Community Health Partnership, Bakersville, NC

• NC MedAssist, Charlotte, NC

• Oceana Community Health, Boynton Beach, FL

• WestLife Wellness, Collettsville, NC

• Western North Carolina Community Health Services, Asheville, NC

Direct Relief’s emergency grant funding is part of a broader response effort, which includes the provision of material medical aid. To date, Direct Relief has provided more than $400,000 in medicines and medical supplies to healthcare providers in communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. Direct Relief remains committed to supporting health centers, free clinics, and charitable pharmacies in providing uninterrupted care as recovery efforts continue.

Licensed to distribute prescription medications nationwide, including North Carolina, Florida, Tennessee, and Georgia, Direct Relief runs the country’s largest nonprofit charitable medicines program, providing donations of medications and supplies to serve low-income, uninsured patients at more than 1,600 nonprofit health centers and clinics on an ongoing basis and in emergency situations.

The post Hurricane Helene Relief: Direct Relief Grants $350,000 in Emergency Funds to Health Providers in North Carolina, Florida appeared first on Direct Relief.

The storm made landfall in the Big Bend region of Florida, hitting nearly the same region devastated by Hurricane Idalia just last year, compounding the challenges for many communities still struggling to recover from the previous disaster. The ongoing rebuilding efforts have left many without adequate healthcare access, making the need for immediate medical assistance even more urgent as Hurricane Helene brings renewed destruction. 

Medical Caches Staged in Helene’s Path

Since the start of hurricane season, Direct Relief has shipped more than $44 million in medications and medical supplies to more than 370 recipients across Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. These shipments have been crucial in helping health centers and clinics prepare for the heightened demand caused by hurricane-related disruptions. 

To enhance disaster response efforts, Direct Relief has long invested in hurricane preparedness efforts, including the pre-positioning of 30 hurricane preparedness caches across the five impacted states this hurricane season. These caches are strategically located at health centers and clinics throughout the state and contain enough medicines and medical supplies to care for 100 ill and injured patients for 72 hours. By having these resources ready before a storm hits, Direct Relief ensures that medical care can continue with minimal disruption, even in areas that may become inaccessible. 

Mobilizing Medications for Rapid Response

Direct Relief’s overall inventory includes life-saving medications, essential medical supplies, and emergency kits designed to meet the immediate health needs of those impacted by the storm. The organization is working closely with local healthcare facilities to expedite the distribution of these resources to ensure timely delivery, especially in areas where access to healthcare may be disrupted. 

Health centers and clinics throughout Florida are encouraged to request supplies to assist their patients during this critical time. Direct Relief remains committed to ensuring that those most vulnerable receive the care they need, even in the most challenging circumstances. 

As the impacts of Hurricane Helene continue to pose significant risks, Direct Relief will remain in contact with its network of healthcare providers who are assessing damages and stands ready to support the recovery efforts and help those in need. 

The post Direct Relief Makes Available $74 Million in Medicines, Supplies to Health Organizations Impacted by Hurricane Helene  appeared first on Direct Relief.

An esteemed attorney and conservationist, Strickland served as the Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Fish, Wildlife, and Parks from 2009 to 2011. In this role, he oversaw the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Park Service, leading efforts in habitat restoration, species protection, and public lands expansion. Strickland joined Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr in 2011 and was a partner in the firm’s Regulatory and Government Affairs, Litigation/Controversy and Securities Departments until 2024. His practice focused on a range of matters at the intersection of law, business, and government policy, including government enforcement cases, Congressional and internal investigations, corporate governance, and high-stakes crisis management matters.  

Prior to his work at the Interior Department, Strickland was appointed executive vice president and chief legal officer of UnitedHealth Group, a diversified health and well-being company serving more than 70 million individuals nationwide. At UnitedHealth, he managed an in-house team of 200 attorneys and a nationwide team of outside counsel. He was responsible for all legal, regulatory and compliance matters and implemented several corporate governance initiatives.  

Strickland served as the United States Attorney for the District of Colorado from 1999 to 2001, where he handled significant environmental and civil rights cases. Strickland is known for his work in advancing conservation policy and his commitment to sustainable resource management. He has been a trusted advisor and leader in public policy and legal circles, with a focus on protecting America’s natural heritage.  

“We are thrilled to welcome Tom to the Direct Relief’s Board of Directors, and look forward to benefitting from his experience in public service and leadership,” said Mark Linehan, Direct Relief’s Board Chair. “Tom’s expertise and acumen compliment the organization’s mission to deliver medical aid to improve the health and lives of people in need around the world.” 

Direct Relief’s Board of Directors is comprised of accomplished individuals from various industries and sectors, all of whom contribute their expertise to the organization’s mission. The addition of Strickland strengthens the organization’s leadership as it continues to expand its reach and impact in response to global health crises and disasters. 

“I am honored to join the board of Direct Relief, an organization that is making a tangible difference in people’s lives every day,” said Strickland. “I look forward to working with my fellow board members and the dedicated team at Direct Relief to further their vital mission and help bring health and hope to those who need it most.” 

The Direct Relief Board of Directors may serve up to three three-year terms.

A full list of Direct Relief’s Board and leadership is available here.

The post Direct Relief Appoints Tom Strickland to Board of Directors appeared first on Direct Relief.

Hurricane John: Immediate Response in Mexico

Late Monday night, Hurricane John made landfall on Mexico’s Pacific coast, bringing devastating winds of 120 mph and torrential rainfall to the states of Oaxaca and Guerrero. The Category 3 storm brought heavy rainfall, mudslides, and triggered warnings of life-threatening floods. Coastal cities like Acapulco and Puerto Escondido suffered damage to homes and infrastructure. Two casualties have been reported following a landslide in Guerrero.

Direct Relief has prepositioned emergency medical supplies, including antibiotics, chronic disease medications, and hygiene kits to support local healthcare providers. These supplies will focus on reaching the most vulnerable populations, including those in remote, isolated areas where access to care is critical.

“Our teams are in contact with our network of healthcare providers on the ground to ensure life-saving medical assistance reaches those in need,” said Eddie Mendoza, Direct Relief’s Mexico Country Director. “As damages and needs are assessed, Direct Relief will respond with the rapid deployment of any additional specifically requested medicines and medical aid to the region.”

Hurricane Helene: Florida Braces for Impact

As Direct Relief continues its response in Mexico, Hurricane Helene, currently a Category 3 storm, is tracking toward Florida’s Gulf Coast. Expected to make landfall within the next 48 hours, Helene threatens millions with destructive winds, heavy rains, and dangerous storm surges. Evacuation orders have already been issued for vulnerable coastal areas, and local authorities are urging residents to prepare for potential flooding, power outages, and infrastructure damage.

Direct Relief’s Hurricane Preparedness Program

In preparation for hurricanes and tropical storms each year, Direct Relief distributes and monitors caches of medications and supplies, called hurricane preparedness packs, throughout the Gulf Coast and other vulnerable areas. The packs contain medical essentials, including chronic disease medications, wound care supplies, and other items commonly requested after storms for patient care.

“Direct Relief’s Hurricane Preparedness Program allows healthcare providers to respond quickly when disasters strike,” said Annie Vu, Associate Director of U.S. Emergency Response for Direct Relief. “By pre-positioning medical supplies, critical resources are available immediately, where and when they are needed most.”

Coordinated Efforts for Dual Crises

As Hurricane John recovery efforts continue in Mexico and Hurricane Helene threatens the U.S., Direct Relief is operating on multiple fronts to address the distinct challenges each storm presents. In Mexico, the focus remains on providing immediate relief and preventing public health crises such as outbreaks of waterborne diseases. In Florida, the organization is working with local partners to prepare for Helene’s potential impact by ensuring healthcare facilities are equipped to handle the surge in patients and possible infrastructure damage, including loss of power.

Direct Relief will continue to provide updates as the situation develops and more information becomes available. The organization remains committed to supporting the affected communities through every phase of the response and recovery process, ensuring that life-saving medical aid is available.

The post Direct Relief Mobilizes for Dual Hurricane Threats appeared first on Direct Relief.

Direct Relief today announced the completion of its fifth resilient power project site in its home state of California. For a health site focused on providing services to vulnerable patients, the project will provide access to uninterrupted power in case of an outage, including from a natural disaster.

Alliance Medical Center, a Federally Qualified Health Center located in Healdsburg, California, stated that its resilient power project, made possible through a $495,000 grant funded by Direct Relief, was completed and online. The project represents a significant step forward in ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services for the Healdsburg community, particularly during times of emergency, disaster, or public safety power shutoff. Healdsburg is located in Sonoma County, which has been impacted by large wildfires in the past, including the deadly 2017 Tubbs Fire, which killed 22 people, destroyed thousands of structures, and interrupted health services in the area.

The project is part of Direct Relief’s Power for Health initiative, an effort that 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. Direct Relief has provided more than $20 million in grants to health centers and clinics throughout the United States for the installation of off-grid, renewable, reliable power systems, improving resiliency and continuity of care for critical health services in vulnerable communities.

Other projects completed in the state of California are located in the communities of Laguna Beach, Los Molinos, Magalia, Mendocino, and Ventura, and 16 additional sites across the United States, including Puerto Rico, have been completed, with others slated to come online in the future.

The just-announced project features the installation of state-of-the-art backup power systems at Alliance Medical Center, including a 58-kilowatt solar array and 330-kilowatt-hour battery storage. The system is equipped to provide up to 15 hours of reliable electricity supply in case of an outage, safeguarding critical medical equipment and refrigeration of medications, and ensuring continuity of care for patients.

“We are delighted to see the completion of this important project, which will greatly enhance the resilience of Alliance Medical Center’s Healdsburg clinic and its ability to serve the healthcare needs of our community,” said Sue Labbe, CEO at Alliance Medical. “The support from Direct Relief has been instrumental in making this project a reality, and we are immensely grateful for their partnership and commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure.”

Direct Relief’s funding for resilient power projects like this one underscores its dedication to building resilient healthcare systems worldwide, ensuring that communities have the capacity to withstand and recover from unforeseen challenges. By investing in initiatives that enhance healthcare infrastructure and preparedness, Direct Relief aims to improve health outcomes and save lives, particularly in underserved and vulnerable populations.

“It’s a privilege for Direct Relief to support Alliance Medical Center, help boost its resiliency, and ensure that power outages won’t prevent its dedicated team from serving the essential role of providing quality health services to thousands of people who otherwise would go without,” said Thomas Tighe, Direct Relief President and CEO.

“The project at Alliance Medical Center is just a perfect example of what California’s vast nonprofit health safety net needs more of in the face of increasingly frequent and intense climate emergencies and power outages. These events disrupt essential health services when they’re most needed by people who are most vulnerable and lack other options for needed care. Direct Relief’s Power for Health initiative aims to engage more philanthropic support to build resilience in a clean, practical, efficient way for health facilities that serve people who face chronic challenges that are only intensified by emergencies, and Alliance Medical Center is a shining real-world example of why it matters.”

The post Direct Relief Announces Completion of Fifth Resilient Power Project in California as Part of Power for Health Initiative appeared first on Direct Relief.

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.

“Past assistance given, as well as forthcoming aid, are testaments to the benefits good partnership can bring to an organization and to a country. Not only have we been greatly helped, but we are also thoroughly impressed by Direct Relief’s humanitarian efforts worldwide,” said Everton Anderson, CEO of the National Health Foundation.

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.

Direct Relief has a long history of providing humanitarian assistance in Jamaica and across the Caribbean region. From responding to the devastating effects of natural disasters to supporting ongoing healthcare needs, Direct Relief has worked closely with local partners to deliver vital medical aid where it is needed most.

“Direct Relief is deeply privileged to support the country of Jamaica and local health providers, who are incredibly committed to high-quality care for their patients and their communities,” said Dr. Byron Scott, Chief Operating Officer of Direct Relief. “With the start of hurricane season weeks away, Direct Relief is committed to strengthening the health system and health services, including power resiliency as part of disaster preparedness.”

Over the two-day visit to Jamaica, Direct Relief staff met with the Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. the Honorable Christopher Tufton, the Most Honorable Juliet Holness, who has led previous Jamaican delegations to overseas conferences with Direct Relief, and NHF Chief Executive Officer Everton Anderson, along with other NHF representatives. The group toured the NHF’s newly refurbished Warehouse, Drug Serv Greater Portmore, and visited local community centers.

The grant to Jamaica is part of Direct Relief’s broader efforts to strengthen healthcare systems and enhance emergency preparedness in vulnerable communities worldwide. Through strategic partnerships and targeted investments, Direct Relief continues to make a meaningful impact in improving health outcomes and saving lives.

The post Direct Relief Announces $3 Million Grant to Jamaica, Renewed Partnership as Hurricane Season Approaches appeared first on Direct Relief.

The country’s ongoing instability has exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation, leading to urgent needs for essential services and support. Over the past year, Haiti has experienced a substantial resurgence of insecurity in many Port-au-Prince metropolitan area neighborhoods. This has created a hostile environment for communities, limiting access to essential resources, including food, water, shelter, and healthcare services. Additionally, Haiti has dealt with storms, flooding, landslides, and a cholera outbreak. 

Thousands of people in Haiti are now facing acute shortages of necessities like food, fuel, healthcare, and protection from violence. Recent reports indicate that hospitals in Haiti are facing critical shortages of staff and medical supplies, hindering their ability to provide adequate healthcare to the population. Partner organizations working in the country have been forced to pause the delivery of services due to the surge in violence, leaving many vulnerable individuals without access to vital support. 

The situation has been compounded by mass displacements of the population, with thousands forced to seek safety in new locations amidst the escalating instability. 

“Direct Relief is deeply committed to supporting front-line health organizations in Haiti, whose staff tirelessly serve patients every day under chronically challenging conditions that have recently become much more severe,” said Thomas Tighe, Direct Relief President and CEO. “The instability is preventing Direct Relief’s typical provision of medications and other essential health products, so this financial support is to allow these exceptional organizations and teams to sustain their essential work when it is needed most.” 

Each of the nine recipient organizations plays a crucial role in providing essential medical services and support to communities across Haiti. The funding provided is to support general operational expenses, including safe transportation for medical staff, housing provisions, and increased security measures amidst escalating unrest. Due to safety and security concerns, the names of the organizations are being withheld at this time.  

Direct Relief has been actively involved in humanitarian efforts, including providing aid to Haiti in response to various crises, such as natural disasters and health emergencies, for many years. As one of the organization’s largest aid recipient countries since the 2010 earthquake, Direct Relief has provided Haiti $418 million in medicines and medical aid among more than 200 recipient organizations and more than $5 million in grant funding support. 

Direct Relief has maintained a strong relationship with its network of healthcare-focused organizations in Haiti and also works in coordination with the Pan American Health Organization, or PAHO, to maintain a flow of medicines and supplies into the country as requested. 

In addition to the $1 million in grant funding, Direct Relief has provided more than $3.2 million in medical aid to 11 healthcare organizations in Haiti since March 2023. 

Direct Relief will continue to track the situation closely and respond to requests for support as needs arise in the days and months ahead. 

The post For Health Workers on Haiti’s Frontlines, Direct Relief Distributes $1 Million in Support appeared first on Direct Relief.

The Maui wildfires inflicted widespread devastation on the Maui community, underscoring the critical need for comprehensive healthcare services in the aftermath of such disasters. Acknowledging the pivotal role Mālama I Ke Ola Health Center plays in the community, Direct Relief’s historic grant aims to empower the health center to provide essential healthcare resources, support immediate medical needs, and enhance overall capacity to serve the affected community.

Recognized for its commitment to transparency, efficiency, and accountability, Direct Relief provides targeted assistance to communities in need, regardless of politics, religion, or ability to pay. Direct Relief has been a steadfast supporter of Community Health Centers across the United States, demonstrating a strong commitment to improving healthcare access for underserved populations. Identifying the crucial role that Community Health Centers play in providing comprehensive and affordable healthcare, Direct Relief has collaborated extensively with the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) to amplify their impact.

“NACHC is deeply appreciative of the generous grant to Mālama I Ke Ola Health Center,” said Kyu Rhee, MD, MPP, President and CEO of NACHC. “The human toll and tragedy that Lahaina residents experienced from the wildfires will take a long recovery. The funding will allow Mālama I Ke Ola Health Center to rebuild infrastructure, provide essential services to the community and help affected island residents heal. Community Health Centers, such as Mālama I Ke Ola Health Center, reach beyond the walls of the exam room to address island health disparities that include higher rates of chronic disease and premature death from environmental factors, including natural disasters. We are grateful for our longstanding partnership and collaboration with Direct Relief to support Community Health Centers as they carry out their mission as the first and last frontline responders to disasters and devastation.”

Through its work with NACHC, Direct Relief aims to address the unique challenges faced by Community Health Centers, ensuring they have the necessary resources to deliver quality healthcare services. This collaboration includes targeted assistance, such as medical donations, financial support, and logistical assistance, tailored to meet the health center’s specific needs.

Direct Relief’s support extends beyond individual grants, with the organization actively engaging with NACHC to advocate for policies that strengthen the Community Health Center model and enhance its ability to serve vulnerable communities. By fostering these strategic collaborations, Direct Relief aims to bolster resilience and effectiveness nationwide.

The organization’s commitment to Community Health Centers aligns with its broader mission to improve health outcomes for individuals affected by poverty and emergencies. Direct Relief recognizes the critical role played by Community Health Centers in delivering healthcare services to those who need it most and remains dedicated to supporting and enhancing their capacity to make a lasting impact on community health.

“This investment underscores our commitment to supporting Community Health Centers and their indispensable role in delivering healthcare to those who need it most, especially during times of crisis,” stated Thomas Tighe, Direct Relief CEO. “Direct Relief is privileged to support the work being done by Mālama I Ke Ola Health Center, as they continue to serve the community of Maui following the devasting fires in August of last year.”

As a Community Health Center, Mālama I Ke Ola Health Center plays a vital role in delivering accessible and quality healthcare services to underserved populations. The grant from Direct Relief is intended to facilitate Mālama I Ke Ola Health Center’s recovery efforts, including the restoration of facilities, provision of medical supplies, and reinforcement of the healthcare infrastructure required to meet the evolving needs of the community. The funding will further amplify the health center’s ability to address the specific challenges faced by vulnerable communities affected by the island’s wildfires.

“We are incredibly grateful for the generous $1 million grant from Direct Relief, which comes at a pivotal moment as we continue our work to address the immediate and long-term needs of our community,” said Cassie Savell, Mālama I Ke Ola Health Center COO and Deputy CEO. “This substantial contribution will allow us to significantly enhance and expand our support and services, ensuring those affected by the fires receive the care and resources they need during this challenging time. Together, with Direct Relief’s support, we are committed to rebuilding and healing our community, demonstrating the power of collaboration and compassion following the Lahaina fire devastation.”

The post Direct Relief Awards $1 Million Grant to Maui Community Health Center for Wildfire Recovery appeared first on Direct Relief.

In anticipation of the storms, Direct Relief is communicating with local authorities, healthcare facilities, and community organizations to assess needs and deploy resources accordingly. With its broad history of responding to emergencies and natural disasters, the organization is well-equipped to provide medical assistance, including essential medicines, first aid supplies, and other critical items to those affected by the storms.

Supporting Local Emergency Response Agencies

As part of the organization’s ongoing commitment to ensuring proper equipping of local emergency response organizations, Direct Relief, in coordination with the California Office of Emergency Services, has donated multiple emergency response vehicles which are being staged to respond to high-risk areas, including the Ventura County Sheriff’s office’s high-water Lenco Advanced Rescue Medevac vehicle.

The four-wheel-drive truck can traverse water and mud up to four feet deep and is equipped with specialized features designed specifically for water rescues. The vehicle has proven instrumental in navigating flooded terrain and reaching areas inaccessible by traditional vehicles over the past year, having supported emergency response with over a dozen rescues during the Port Hueneme flooding events in December 2023.

Direct Relief will continue to monitor the situation as it progresses over the coming days, and offer support as requested.

The post California Braces for Back-to-Back Storms, Emergency Preparedness Underway appeared first on Direct Relief.

In response to the wildfire, Direct Relief has dispatched an emergency wildfire health kit shipment, which includes respiratory medications, eye drops, chronic disease medications, first aid supplies, and PPE, including N-95 masks to protect against inhalation of fine particulate matter from ash and smoke. The kit will be delivered to Health Center Partners, the regional primary care association for Riverside County to begin assisting patients in impacted areas.

Beyond the immediate danger posed to nearby communities, wildfires can exacerbate chronic health issues such as asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory problems. For those with such conditions, fires deal a harsh mix of smoke, dust, and other particulates in the air. An air quality advisory has been issued in areas across Southern California through Thursday evening as a result of the Highland fire.

Direct Relief is based in California and responds to fires each year, maintaining an inventory of fire-related items – N-95 particulate masks, inhalers, nebulizers, and personal care items – which are available to healthcare centers and clinics upon their request.

Direct Relief will continue to monitor the situation as it evolves and provide updates as they become available.

The post As Highland Fire Grows in Southern California, Direct Relief Ships Requested Medicines, Supplies appeared first on Direct Relief.

Following major storms like Otis, widespread damage to homes and health facilities often leaves thousands displaced and at risk. Direct Relief works closely with local healthcare facilities in hurricane-prone areas around the world to ensure those in need have medication, supplies, and necessary care.

Direct Relief has initiated communication with its network of partner organizations, including Mexico’s Federal Health Secretariat organization, the Operational Center for Contingency Attention (COPAC), The National Defense Ministry of Mexico (SEDENA), and Medical Impact, A non-governmental organization dedicated to providing health services and medical aid to disadvantaged communities in Mexico. These organizations have received funding and medical aid from Direct Relief to assist them in responding to disasters just like Hurricane Otis and were equipped with emergency medical packs and emergency health kits.

The situation in Acapulco is dynamic and impacts of the storm will continue to emerge in the days ahead. Direct Relief will continue to assess the situation and will be in communication with additional healthcare providers and first responder organizations to offer additional emergency medical resources as needed.

The post Hurricane Otis, a Rare Category 5 Storm, Slams Mexico’s Western Coast appeared first on Direct Relief.

More than 1,000 people have been killed and over 1,200 are injured. These numbers are expected to rise in the coming days, as Moroccan urban search and rescue (USAR) continue their initial assessment and are able to gain further access into hard to reach, remote areas of the country.

Immediate and Near-Term Response

In the days immediately following an earthquake of this magnitude, the priority is to bolster the availability of medical items needed to treat a range of traumatic injuries caused by falling debris, crush injuries, fractures, lacerations and search and rescue activities. A continued flow of primary care items to help keep people with chronic health conditions will also be necessary, especially while local resources are reallocated for emergency response.

At this time, the Moroccan government has not requested international assistance, however many governments, including the United States, have offers of support pending.

Direct Relief is assessing what immediate and near-term medical needs are in coordination with local officials and agencies to ensure efficiency and avoid bottlenecks that can occur when efforts to bring in personnel and material assistance converge in an area with damaged infrastructure.

Direct Relief has made initial contact with our network of health care organizations and providers in Morocco, including the Ministry of Public Health of Morocco, International Office of Migration in Morocco, the Morocco Country Office of Eli Lilly, the Society of Critical Care Medicine, and Foundation Lalli Salma.

Injury and Disease Risks From Earthquakes

Earthquakes typically cause various blunt trauma and orthopedic injuries, such as broken bones, lacerations, and crush syndrome from being trapped under heavy debris. An overwhelming number of injuries in the initial moments of an emergency can create an acute need for health personnel, medical supplies, blood, and medicines.

In addition to the acute medical needs resulting from the earthquake, people can become ill due to being displaced and lacking shelter, compromised water and sanitation systems, lack of refrigeration, and untreated injuries. These circumstances can lead to bacterial infections and disease outbreaks among people who are forced into temporary shelters.

Direct Relief will continue to assess the situation and what needs exist across the impacted region in the coming days.

The post Direct Relief Assessing Needs in Morocco Following Major Earthquake appeared first on Direct Relief.

With high winds, extreme flooding, and power outages likely for Florida’s west coast, Direct Relief has pre-positioned 13 hurricane preparedness modules, each containing enough medical supplies to treat 100 patients for conditions ranging from basic trauma injuries to chronic illnesses for a 72-hour period. The caches have been placed in secure locations near vulnerable areas across Florida, four of which are located within Hurricane Idalia’s current projected path. Direct Relief also maintains a medical inventory, valued at more than $300 million wholesale, available for emergency response efforts.

Following major storms like Idalia, widespread damage to residences and health facilities often leaves thousands homeless and at risk. Direct Relief works closely with local healthcare facilities in the U.S. and other affected countries to ensure those in need have medication, supplies, and necessary care. The organization prioritizes working with safety-net clinics, which serve a key role in caring for displaced individuals, particularly those who are low-income and vulnerable.

Direct Relief is communicating with the Florida Association of Community Health Centers and The Florida Association of Free and Charitable Clinics on any needs expected to arise from the storm’s impacts. Direct Relief will continue to monitor the development of this storm in the days ahead and will communicate with additional healthcare providers and first responder organizations to offer additional emergency medical resources as needed.

The post Florida Braces For Idalia, Evacuations Underway appeared first on Direct Relief.

Currently, the fire is burning in a very unpopulated area, resulting in zero evacuation orders at this time, although there are some park closures in the Mojave National Preserve as well as significant damage to the area’s historic Joshua trees.

Despite the fire not currently threatening a populated area, smoke from the blaze has already traveled and is approaching the Las Vegas Valley area of Nevada, with ‘elevated readings for particulate matter’ in East Las Vegas, Boulder City and Henderson, Nevada.

Direct Relief is in communication with the Nevada Primary Care Association, the California Primary Care Association, and the Community Health Association Inland Southern Region in San Bernardino, California, and stands ready to assist should the situation further deteriorate.

Direct Relief will continue to monitor this fire, and others burning across the Western U.S. for their impact on direct evacuations and indirect air quality impacts.

Fires and Health

The organization has a long history of responding to wildfires, particularly in the Western U.S., and has deployed often in recent years to fires across the region as drought and climate conditions cause fires to increase in frequency and severity. Fires can also cause health risks during evacuation. As people quickly evacuate their homes, they may leave behind medicines needed to manage chronic diseases like diabetes or high blood pressure.

If left unmanaged, those conditions can escalate into emergency situations, requiring high levels of care at hospitals that may already be stretched thin. Direct Relief maintains an inventory of medical aid commonly requested by health providers during fires. When an emergency such as a wildfire occurs, requests for medical assistance are often made in the days and weeks afterward as health care providers, emergency response managers, and others closest to the fire’s impacts take stock of medical needs.

Direct Relief is prepared to meet a wide range of requests for medical support in the coming days and weeks. The organization will stay in close communication with local responders about ongoing needs and is ready to respond.

The post California Wildfires Fueled by Heat, Dry Conditions appeared first on Direct Relief.

The new board appointments come at a time of significant growth for the organization’s global humanitarian response efforts, including being the largest charitable provider of personal protective equipment, or PPE, worldwide in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, and as the largest private provider of medicines and medical supplies into Ukraine since Feb. 2022.

A leader in providing medical humanitarian aid to those in need, Direct Relief is ranked fifth on Forbes List of Top 100 Charities and earned a renewed four-star rating from Charity Navigator in 2022, America’s largest independent charity evaluator, for the 12th consecutive year.

“Direct Relief is thrilled to welcome these impressively accomplished individuals to its board,” said Mark Linehan, Direct Relief’s Board Chair. “Each of their unique perspectives, experience, and interests will support the advancement of the organization’s mission of mobilizing essential medical and other resources across the U.S. and around the world.”

• Emma Carrasco is Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs at NBCUniversal News Group. Carrasco joined NBCU News Group from National Geographic Society, where she was Chief Marketing and Communications Officer and SVP of Global Strategy since 2016. She previously spent four years at NPR as Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Vice President for Audience Development. Before that, Carrasco was Executive Vice President at Miami-based marketing agency RepúblicaHavas. Until recently, she was a board member of Toast Ale, a certified B Corporation dedicated to eradicating food waste.

• Adam Cooper served for more than 18 years as Senior Managing Director and General Counsel of Citadel LLC, where he oversaw global legal, compliance, transaction management and regulatory affairs functions. Following Citadel, Adam served as the Chair of the Advisory Board of Driehaus Capital Management. Among other financial markets industry board and non-profit work, he has served on the Northwestern Memorial Hospital Foundation Board and Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law Board for many years and was the Law Board’s Chair between 2018 and 2020. Adam spent the first 12 years of his career at the Law Firm Katten Muchin Rosenman.

• Mark Schwartz is a Co-Founder/Co-Managing Partner of KSHFO, LLC, a multi-family office that focuses on investments in technology and real estate.  He was formerly the Chairman and CEO of Specialty Merchandise Corporation (“SMC”), an import distribution company.  Prior to SMC, he was a Vice President at Goldman Sachs. Mark received his MBA from Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business, where he served on the Management Board, and his BA from UC Santa Barbara, where he is a current Trustee of the UC Santa Barbara Foundation.  He is a former Chairman of the Beverly Hills chapter of the Young President’s Organization and a current member of CEO, Chief Executives Organization.  He previously served on the Direct Relief Board of Directors from 2012-2021, serving as Chairman from 2018-2020.

The Direct Relief Board of Directors will serve three-year terms.

A full list of Direct Relief’s Board and leadership is available here.

The post Direct Relief Announces Appointment of Three Directors to Board appeared first on Direct Relief.

The summit brought more than 40 leaders from across the Caribbean together to hear from medical and industry experts on the increased risk of disasters and the threats such events pose to health infrastructure in hurricane-prone areas around the region.

As ocean temperatures continue to rise due to climate change, so has the severity of the hurricanes that batter the Caribbean region year after year. The Caribbean experienced 70 named tropical storms across 19 countries between 1980 and 2019.

In response, Direct Relief has provided support to Caribbean health initiatives, including medical refrigeration, solar power, and requested medical supplies. By providing aid and logistical assistance before, during, and after hurricanes and tropical storms, Direct Relief has responded in the contiguous U.S. and Puerto Rico, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Dominica, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, Barbados, Cuba, St. Maarten, the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, Anguilla, Turks and Caicos, Antigua, and Jamaica.

“Governments worldwide have significant challenges in this post-covid moment, facing intensifying natural events that pose great risks to this region,” said Thomas Tighe, President and CEO of Direct Relief. “We deeply appreciate these leaders being here to share their perspectives on how private philanthropy can assist them to better prepare and respond to disasters in the Caribbean.”

Since establishing the Puerto Rico office in 2017 to support Hurricane Maria response, Direct Relief has facilitated the implementation of over 400 projects to strengthen Puerto Rico’s healthcare system through its health center network and other local nonprofit organizations. With an investment of more than $120 million, including grant funding and requested medical aid, the organization has expanded healthcare services for vulnerable communities across the island and bolstered emergency preparedness capacity at health facilities.

Now, Direct Relief has unveiled Puerto Rico as a hub for Caribbean emergency response, with over 25 tons of emergency medical supplies staged on the island and ready for deployment to neighboring Caribbean islands facing impacts from disasters and emergencies.

As part of Direct Relief’s efforts to support disaster response in the region, the Hurricane Preparedness Program features the deployment of large caches of the medical items most needed in the wake of a disaster, including trauma supplies, antibiotics, and wound care supplies, as well as medications for diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory, psychological, and gastrointestinal ailments. The Hurricane Preparedness Packs weigh 1,470 lbs. and are designed to provide enough medical supplies to care for 1,000 people for 30 days.

This year, 18 countries in the Northern Hemisphere, including Anguilla, Bahamas, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Panama, and St. Lucia will receive the Hurricane Preparedness Packs from Direct Relief.

The post Direct Relief Convenes 15 Caribbean Nations to Discuss Climate Change and Impacts on Health appeared first on Direct Relief.

Warmer oceans caused by climate change have increased the severity of the hurricanes that batter the region year after year. The Caribbean experienced 70 named tropical cyclones across 19 countries between 1980 and 2019.

The original 2019 partnership agreement enabled Direct Relief to strengthen its emergency preparation and response capabilities across the Caribbean following 2017’s Hurricanes Irma and Maria, which devastated islands across the region. Direct Relief collaborated directly with the Ministries of Health in Antigua and Barbuda, Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands and the Commonwealth of Dominica to respond to the 2017 hurricanes, leading to the broader partnership with the OECS.

“The OECS has had a close and valued relationship with Direct Relief,” said OECS Director General Dr. Didacus Jules.

“In every disaster that has struck the OECS Member States, they have been a proactive and reliable partner providing precisely the kinds of support necessary to expedite our recovery. Direct Relief does not wait for a disaster to strike – they monitor predictions and pre-position supplies in anticipation of the worst. We are deeply appreciative of this level of partnership.”

Under the partnership, Direct Relief pre-positions hurricane prep packs, large caches of the medical items most commonly needed in the wake of a disaster, including trauma supplies, antibiotics and wound care supplies, as well as medications for diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory, psychological and gastrointestinal ailments.

Direct Relief worked closely with OECS in responding to the Covid pandemic, dispatching personal protective equipment, Covid testing kits, ICU medical supply kits, and vaccine refrigerators and freezers to each member state. Covid supplies were consolidated at the main OECS warehouse in Saint Lucia and redistributed throughout the region. The two organizations also worked together to deliver emergency medical supplies after the 2021 eruption of a volcano in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

“After a productive three-year partnership built on the shared mission of strengthening the emergency preparedness and response efforts of the OECS and their member states, Direct Relief is proud to renew our partnership agreement with the OECS,” said Daniel Hovey, Direct Relief’s Director of Emergency Response and New Initiatives.

“With the expansion of our humanitarian depot in Puerto Rico, Direct Relief has reinforced our capacity to effectively respond to emergency situations throughout the Caribbean region. We look forward to continued collaboration with the OECS as we make further investments to the healthcare infrastructure of the Eastern Caribbean.”

The post With Hurricane Season Underway, Direct Relief and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States Renew Partnership appeared first on Direct Relief.

“We were very worried about the intensity of the storm that was predicted, so we took on preparation,” said Dr. Iftikher Mahmood, Director and Founder of HOPE Foundation. “We secured our hospital as much as possible. We put together teams of doctors, nurses, midwives, support staff – and they all stayed during the storm to assist with patient care.”

Since August 2017, an unprecedented humanitarian emergency has unfolded in the region as hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees have crossed the Myanmar border into neighboring Bangladesh. This mass migration has created what is now the world’s largest refugee camp forming in southern Bangladesh, between the Myanmar border and the Bay of Bengal.

Direct Relief’s long-time partner the HOPE Foundation, which is based in Cox’s Bazar and specializes in maternal and child health care, has established itself in the refugee camps of southern Bangladesh to provide care for expectant mothers using mobile clinics and the 24-hour field hospital, which has expanded HOPE’s capacity for care.

Sexual and reproductive health services are scarce, given the disproportionate number of women and expectant mothers in the camps. Obstetric surgery in these conditions is limited, so most women must be transported to local hospitals, but in the face of a catastrophic storm, such transport is highly unlikely, if even possible at all.

As the storm raged on, pregnant women arrived at the hospital in labor. The emergency team of staff were on hand to provide the care and support the mothers needed to deliver their babies safely.

“Between our two hospitals, we had several deliveries, including surgical c-sections,” Dr. Mahmood continued. “If we had shut down operations due to fear of the storm, these women could have been at major risk.”

Despite the challenging conditions, the hospital’s team of doctors, nurses, and support staff worked throughout to ensure that patient care continued despite the threat of the storm.

“Direct Relief has provided us emergency response packs for the past four or five years, so we have them as a resource,” said Dr. Mahmood. “Luckily, the storm diverted, and we did not sustain any major damage.”

In addition to the emergency response packs, Direct Relief has sent five shipments to Bangladesh over the last six months, which included 10 tons worth of insulin, prescription drugs, and medical supplies, as well as a shipment of requested medications to Myanmar.

HOPE Foundation will open their new hospital, a six-story facility that has served as a location for patient quarantine during the Covid-19 pandemic, and recently as a safe haven for critical patients in dangerous weather conditions.

Direct Relief has provided Hope Hospital for Women and Children with $6.6 million in medical aid, including medical essentials to equip midwives for healthy births, and provided more than $660,000 in grant funding.

The post With Cyclone Mocha Raging, Life Carries on at HOPE Hospital appeared first on Direct Relief.

Upon arrival in Adana, the 166-pallet shipment will be loaded onto trucks and driven across the border into Syria, where it will be received by three on-the-ground organizations – 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.

Medical Aid En Route to Syria

In April, Direct Relief and FedEx announced the arrival of a humanitarian relief flight into Turkey carrying 80 tons of medical supplies for areas struck by the earthquakes. 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.

In March, a 80-ton infusion of aid arrived in Turkey and was trucked into Syria to support the Syrian American Medical Society, Independent Doctors Association, and Syria Relief and Development.

Direct Relief has provided more than 400 tons of medical aid to health facilities in Turkey and Syria since the earthquakes in early February.

The post Sixty-Nine Tons of Humanitarian Medical Aid En Route to Syria appeared first on Direct Relief.

The Ministry of Health of Turkey will distribute the supplies to medical facilities located in the most heavily impacted provinces of Hatay, Adiyaman, Kahramanmaras, Malatya, and Gaziantep.

“Our hearts are with those who have been affected by the destructive earthquakes in Turkey, and Direct Relief is committed to answering urgent requests for medical support,” said Thomas Tighe, Direct Relief President and CEO. “Direct Relief is privileged to provide critically needed medical support to millions of people who have lost so much in the face of the earthquake and continue to endure tremendous hardship and uncertainty.”

Tuesday’s flight reflects the concern and personal support from people in over 107 countries and all 50 U.S. States and the same from multiple companies that have generously issued their support. Supplies on the flight were donated by companies including Baxter, Edenbridge Pharmaceuticals, Haleon, Henry Schein, Hikma Pharmaceuticals, TEVA, and Viatris.

Direct Relief and FedEx have been collaborating to deliver critical aid for more than two decades. Together, the organizations are able to assist communities in need around the world by leveraging logistical expertise to transport critical aid where and when it is needed most.

“Our thoughts continue to be with the millions of people who are still struggling in the aftermath of these tragic earthquakes,” said Richard W. Smith, FedEx Express President and CEO. “FedEx has a history of using its global network to provide relief, and we’re incredibly proud to work with organizations like Direct Relief who are committed to quickly responding to disasters when help and hope are needed most.”

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.

In addition to in-kind medical shipments, Direct Relief has also disbursed more than $800,000 in immediate emergency grant funding to enable and sustain the emergency response operations of six local healthcare and search and rescue groups working across Turkey.

-The Society of Critical Care Medicine received $500,000 to support specialized procurement of trauma care needs and supplies. The organization has active members working in hospitals in Turkey and Syria and is also mobilizing ICU specialists from multiple countries to provide emergency medicine and critical care services in support of the Turkish health system.

-The Turkish Midwifery Association received $100,000 to obtain delivery kits. The association has 3,910 members who provide pre- and post-natal home care as well as childbirth services at Turkish hospitals throughout the country. Pregnant women and newborns are particularly vulnerable to health risks in disaster settings, and the funding will pay for supplies to facilitate safe births, as well as personal care supplies for pregnant women and those recovering from birth.

-AKUT, the leading search and rescue team in Turkey with over 400 staff and volunteers, received $100,000 for urban search and rescue efforts. The group also received 100 Direct Relief field medic backpacks for triage care.

-Turkish Society of Nephrology – Renal Disaster Task Force received $20,000 for converted shipping containers to shelters for specialized teams cycling into Adiyaman, Hatay, and Kahramanmaras to provide medical care for crush wounds and resulting kidney issues that occur after acute traumas.

-The Turkish Society of Intensive Care and the Turkish Medical Association have each been awarded $50,000 for the procurement of 10 containerized housing units used for front-line medical doctors and staff.

The post Eighty Tons of Medical Support Arrives in Turkey Via FedEx Charter Flight appeared first on Direct Relief.