In Summary
- As the aftermath of the Haiti earthquake brings displacement and health issues, Direct Relief is providing more than $8.6 million in medical aid.
- The pandemic has hit people experiencing homelessness especially hard. Direct Relief is supporting the organizations working to meet their health care needs.
- A $150,000 grant from Direct Relief and BD is bolstering a highly successful diabetes program in California.
- In two L.A. neighborhoods, promotoras play a major role in getting people vaccinated and connected to health services.
Top Stories
In the Aftermath of the Haiti Earthquake, Supporting Providers On the Ground
The situation: The earthquake that rocked Haiti on August 14 caused a myriad of health problems, from premature labor to scabies and other infections.
The response: Direct Relief has provided more than $8.6 million in medical aid to medical facilities and foundations operating in the country, including the Pan American Health Organization. The aid has included over $7.3 million in pharmaceuticals and above 5 million defined daily doses of medicine.
The impact: The medical aid is supporting first responders working in displacement camps, maternal health care providers, and more.
For People Experiencing Homelessness, The Pandemic Brings New Health Problems
The situation: From a lack of access to telehealth to increased mental health strain, the pandemic is hurting the health of people experiencing homelessness.
The response: Direct Relief is providing support to on-the-ground organizations such as Camillus Health Concern and Community-University Health Care Center that focus on providing health care to the homeless.
The impact: These organizations are working to treat patients, help them find housing, and surround them with social services.
This Whole-Person Diabetes Program Is Making Strides in California
The situation: The Northeast Valley Health Corporation helps chronic disease patients make lifestyle changes and overcome barriers to their health.
The response: A $150,000 award from Direct Relief and BD, one of six given this year through the Helping Build Healthy Communities initiative, is supporting this high-touch program.
The impact: The grant will help the health center offer monthly visits and hire a bilingual staff member who helps patients receive holistic care.
Promotoras Play an Essential Role in the Health of Two L.A. Communities
The situation: In L.A.’s Boyle Heights and Pico-Union, some are hesitant to seek medical care or get a vaccine. Promotoras – specially trained community health workers – employed by Clínica Romero are working to change that.
The response: Direct Relief provided Clínica Romero with ongoing medical aid and a $50,000 grant during the Covid-19 pandemic to support their operations.
The impact: The support has helped the health center continue their indispensable work among a primarily Latino population.
In Brief
The United States
- Over the past two weeks, Direct Relief has made 766 shipments to 489 partners in 46 states and territories, totaling $4.2 million in value and more than 11,000 pounds.
Around the World
- In the past two weeks, Direct Relief has made 63 shipments to 32 partners in 22 countries, totaling $75.6 million in value and more than 107,000 pounds.
- During the same period, $250,000 has been granted.
