In the wake of the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl in Texas, Direct Relief has mobilized a series of critical medical aid shipments to local healthcare organizations. These shipments, set to arrive in the coming days, include vital medications and supplies essential for treating chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes (including insulin), respiratory and allergy medications, antibiotics, personal protective equipment, and over-the-counter items like sunscreen, hygiene supplies, insect repellent, and pain relievers.
Hurricanes disproportionately impact certain populations, including children, older adults, individuals without access to transportation, and those with disabilities. Particularly at risk are individuals with chronic conditions who may be displaced and lose access to necessary medications. Chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and high blood pressure can lead to increased emergency room visits during times of high volume for acute injuries.
Two days after Beryl first struck the Texas coastline, over 1.5 million residents remain without power or air conditioning as extreme heat and humidity engulf the region. These power outages pose life-threatening risks for individuals dependent on electricity-powered medical devices, such as ventilators. Additionally, health facilities rely on power to refrigerate vaccines, insulin, and other temperature-sensitive therapies, as well as to power electronic health records and other essential equipment.
Healthcare partners in the affected areas have reported severe service disruptions and closures due to power outages, which have also delayed needs assessments and damage reports. This lack of information is common after major disasters and underscores the importance of Direct Relief’s annual hurricane preparedness initiative. Through this initiative, the organization prepositions Hurricane Prep Packs in hurricane-prone regions of the U.S. and the Caribbean before hurricane season.
Direct Relief’s Hurricane Prep Packs, developed in collaboration with experts from frontline clinics and health centers, contain 220 types of medicine to treat trauma and other acute conditions, as well as chronic illnesses such as diabetes, asthma, and hypertension. These packs also include first aid supplies, basic diagnostic equipment, and personal protective gear. Each pack is designed to support the care of an estimated 100 people for 72 hours, allowing Direct Relief to prioritize additional deliveries of emergency medical resources during critical times.
Before Hurricane Beryl made landfall in Texas, Direct Relief had strategically staged Hurricane Prep Packs at 11 healthcare facilities serving communities impacted by the storm. According to Texas health providers, these medications and supplies are already being dispensed to patients affected by the hurricane.
As response and recovery efforts continue, Direct Relief remains committed to providing targeted support to replenish medical inventories at health centers, clinics, and other nonprofit health providers to help meet the increased demand for services and ensuring the health and well-being of the affected communities.
