NetHope, a unique collaboration of the world’s leading international humanitarian organizations working together to solve common problems in the developing world with Information and Communication Technology (ICT) solutions, today welcomed its 38th member organization, Direct Relief – an organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people affected by poverty, disaster, and civil unrest through medical assistance.

Direct Relief provides health services to reach people in rural areas that are poor, lack access to health care, and often battle severe health challenges. As NetHope’s newest member organization, Direct Relief will build on its existing work by utilizing – and enhancing – the “last-mile” connectivity and application projects championed by NetHope and its membership.

“Technology has been a powerful force multiplier for Direct Relief’s humanitarian efforts and the people we serve,” said Thomas Tighe, Direct Relief President and CEO.  “We are delighted to join NetHope and help extend the benefits of technology for humanitarian purposes.”

“We are thrilled to officially have Direct Relief part of the NetHope collective,” said NetHope CEO Bill Brindley. “We know that their expertise in emergency response and health will bring a wealth of value to our initiatives.”

NetHope, Inc., which started in 2001, is a new-generation collaboration of the international community’s leading nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) representing over $40 billion (USD) of emergency relief, human development and conservation programs in more than 180 countries. Through member collaboration and by facilitating public-private partnerships with major technology companies, NetHope enables members to leverage their technology investments to better serve their end beneficiaries. For more information, visit www.nethope.org.