Medications and supplies shipped this week included treatments for chronic conditions, oncology and specialty therapies, protective equipment, and more.

Medical Aid Shipped as U.S. Braces for Winter Weather

A powerful winter storm is forecast to impact a large portion of the U.S., bringing heavy snow, freezing rain, and dangerously cold temperatures from the Southern Plains through the Midwest and into parts of the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. Winter storm watches are in effect across more than 30 states, and several states have issued emergency declarations to support preparedness and response efforts.

The storm may create dangerous travel conditions and widespread power outages, which can disrupt access to heating, medical equipment, and essential services—especially for vulnerable populations.

On Friday, medical support departed for health providers in Texas and Maryland as they braced for storm impacts. Personal care products, including soap, shampoo, and dental supplies, departed to support potential shelter needs in Harris County, Texas. Field medic packs, which contain emergency medical supplies for triage care, were also shipped to Texas, as well as Mobile Medical Care in Maryland.

Direct Relief is also in communication with the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics and the National Association of Community Health Centers, both of which are engaging their member clinics and state primary care associations and sharing information on available Direct Relief resources to support local response efforts. Direct Relief has also been in communication with the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management and North Carolina Emergency Management.

Given the potential for widespread and prolonged impacts, Direct Relief will continue to respond to medical needs as they become known.

Medical Aid Shipment Departs for Ukraine

This week, multiple shipments of essential medical aid departed for local organizations in Ukraine supporting health services in the country.

The shipments included medications for chronic disease management, mental health, and infectious disease treatment. These essential medications and supplies will equip health workers and support patient care amid continued disruptions to healthcare access

Monitoring Flooding and Public Health Risks in Mozambique

Severe storms and weeks of torrential rainfall have caused widespread flooding across southern Africa, particularly in Mozambique, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. As of January 20, more than 200 deaths have been reported, and hundreds of thousands have been affected or displaced — including over 350,000 in Mozambique alone. Flooding has damaged homes and infrastructure, disrupting health services.

These conditions are increasing public health risks, including the potential for waterborne disease outbreaks such as cholera, with displaced communities most at risk. Continued rainfall and infrastructure damage are complicating response efforts and are expected to extend recovery timelines, including in areas still recovering from significant flooding in 2025.

Direct Relief is in communication with the International Organization for Migration Mozambique about potential medical needs. Direct Relief will continue monitoring the situation across Mozambique, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. The organization has responded to emergencies in the region in the past, including flooding and storm damage in Mozambique following Cyclone Idai in 2019.

Operational Snapshot

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 299 shipments containing 564,457 million doses of medication this past week to organizations, including the following:

Around the World

Globally, Direct Relief shipped over 17.5 million defined daily doses of medication, totaling 93,817 lbs., to countries including the following:

The post Emergency Supplies Depart Ahead of Major U.S. Winter Storm appeared first on Direct Relief.

Medications and supplies shipped this week included treatments for chronic conditions, medicines to treat infectious diseases, oncology care, personal protective equipment, and more.

Chronic Disease Treatments Depart for Haiti

Amid ongoing conflict and the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, access to lifesaving care in Haiti remains under severe strain, particularly for people living with chronic illness who rely on routine treatment.

In response to an urgent request from Fondation Haïtienne de Diabète et de Maladies Cardio-Vasculaires, or FHADIMAC, Direct Relief shipped essential medicines and medical supplies to support patients and frontline healthcare providers. FHADIMAC is Haiti’s leading referral center for diabetes and cardiovascular disease, supporting clinics nationwide from its sites in Port-au-Prince and Jérémie.

The shipment includes insulin injection devices, antibiotics, cardiovascular medicines, and treatments for Type 2 diabetes.

Medical Aid Arrives in Ethiopia’s Tigray Region

Direct Relief has delivered its first shipment of essential medicines to Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, where health services continue to recover following years of conflict.

The shipment was made possible through collaboration with the International Council of Nurses, the Ethiopian Nurses Association, and the Tigray Regional Health Bureau. Direct Relief provided essential medications to support cancer care, infectious disease treatment, pain management, anesthesia, and other urgent clinical services. 

A formal handover ceremony took place on January 12, attended by leadership from the Ethiopian Nurses Association, hospital staff, regional health authorities, and local media. The medicines are now being used at Ayder Hospital and will also support onward distribution to additional healthcare facilities across the region. 

Operational Snapshot

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 455 shipments containing 1.5 million doses of medication this past week to organizations, including the following:

Around the World

Globally, Direct Relief shipped over 5.4 million defined daily doses of medication, totaling 49,326 lbs., to countries including the following:

IN THE NEWS

Altadena Library Hosts Teen Wellness Workshop as Community Continues Eaton Fire Recovery – Pasadena Weekendr 

Miami Heat to host Jamaica Night in support of hurricane recovery efforts – CNW Network 

Trevor Noah named host of 2026 Grammy Awards – The Music Universe 

The post Direct Relief Support Departs for 14 Countries, 44 U.S. States and Territories appeared first on Direct Relief.

Medications and supplies shipped this week included treatments for chronic conditions, infectious diseases, surgical and clinical care supplies, cold-chain storage equipment, and more.

2025 Year in Review

Between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2025, Direct Relief delivered 29.9K shipments to 2,778 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 93 countries. These shipments contained 320.2 million defined daily doses of medication, valued at $2 billion (wholesale), totaling approximately 4.7 million pounds.

These metrics reflect the scope of Direct Relief’s operational activity throughout 2025. As the organization enters 2026, Direct Relief remains committed to meeting ongoing and emerging humanitarian needs worldwide.

Emergency Medical Aid Dispatched to Displaced Communities in South Sudan

This week, Direct Relief dispatched an emergency medical shipment to support displaced communities in South Sudan, where ongoing conflict has forced thousands of families from their homes and severely limited access to essential care.

The shipment will support Transformation of the World in Christ, a partner providing medical and humanitarian services to internally displaced people and refugees across Twic County and Warrap State. Many of those displaced have fled from other parts of South Sudan, including the Sudan border, with Twic County serving as a critical place of refuge. 

These supplies include personal care items for displaced people, insect repellent, solar lights, and other essential medical items to help prevent infection and support clinics serving six IDP camps.

The shipment builds on Direct Relief’s ongoing deliveries to health providers working to sustain care amid complex and evolving challenges.

Cold-Chain Equipment Supports Breast Cancer Care in Ghana

Breast Care International — a longstanding partner of Direct Relief working to expand early detection, treatment, and breast cancer care across Ghana — recently received five refrigerators and five universal power supplies that will enhance the organization’s ability to safely store life-saving medicines and better serve patients.

BCI’s mission focuses on breast health education, screening, counseling, and treatment support to reduce breast cancer mortality and improve the quality of life for women at risk across the country.

Direct Relief has supported BCI and its network of health facilities for more than a decade, contributing over $154 million in medical resources since 2014, and will continue to support efforts to strengthen access to essential care across Ghana.

Medical and Hurricane Relief Supplies Delivered in Southern Haiti

Direct Relief partner Hope for Haiti delivered hurricane relief supplies and other donated medical supplies in southern Haiti, including a rapid distribution to one of its healthcare partners, Nova Hope for Haiti. The delivery was supported through Direct Relief’s ongoing gift-in-kind partnership, which helps strengthen access to essential medicines and medical supplies for healthcare providers across the country.

The distribution was built on prepositioned emergency supplies that allowed partners to respond quickly following Hurricane Melissa. “Having all of these healthcare hurricane kits prepositioned really allowed us to act immediately after Hurricane Melissa,” said Linda Thelemaque, Hope for Haiti’s Chief Program Officer.

The delivery is part of Direct Relief’s ongoing partnership with Hope for Haiti to support healthcare access in Haiti through local partners.

Operational Snapshot

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 539 shipments containing 1.1 million doses of medication this past week to organizations, including the following:

Around the World

Globally, Direct Relief shipped over 1.5 million defined daily doses of medication, totaling 24,826 lbs., to countries including the following:

IN THE NEWS

Direct Relief’s New CEO Commands the Spotlight – Montecito Journal

SoCal Wildfires: How You Can Help – ABC7

More than $15 million Directed Toward Fire Relief One Year After Los Angeles Wildfires, as Musicares Continues Long-Term Recovery Efforts – RecordingAcademy.com

MusiCares Details $15 Million Distributed for Los Angeles Fire Relief – Variety

5 Best Humanitarian Charities to Donate to in 2026 – Sapa-Usa.org

The post Medical Aid Supports Displaced Communities in South Sudan, Strengthens Care in Ghana and Haiti, and More appeared first on Direct Relief.

Medications and supplies shipped this week included diabetes treatments, pain relief medications, personal protective equipment, nutritional supplements, and more.

Medical Aid Arrives in Flooded Pacific Northwest

An atmospheric river brought days of heavy rainfall to Washington State and parts of the Pacific Northwest, triggering significant flooding, evacuations, and a statewide state of emergency in Washington.

Direct Relief responded ahead of a second round of storms by shipping 15 field medic packs to equip first responders and 95 kits filled with personal care items for displaced people to community health center and tribal partners in affected areas of Washington as well as to Libby, Montana. All supplies arrived by Monday, December 15, and additional support to community health centers across five counties in Washington state is being prepared.

Direct Relief is coordinating with Sea Mar Community Health Centers and the Northwest Regional Primary Care Association to assess ongoing impacts to the region and identify any additional needs resulting from the storms and ongoing flooding.

Direct Relief Hosts Pothawira International at Headquarters

Last week, Direct Relief hosted Dr. Anne Alaniz, founder of Pothawira International, and Dr. Joanie Mayer Hope to discuss ongoing support for healthcare initiatives in Salima, Malawi. 

Pothawira International serves the community through education, economic sustainability projects, and healthcare programs focused on women and children. The organization operates a clinic serving approximately 200 patients daily, a birthing center that completed over 500 deliveries in 2024, an orphanage, a primary school, and a sustainability farm. A new surgical center with four operating rooms is currently under construction. 

Since 2023, Direct Relief has provided Pothawira with more than $6 million in medical aid, including midwifery kits, essential medications, and surgical supplies to support patient care in Malawi. “We have already increased our birthing delivery capacity because of these donations and opened more access since this has significantly lowered our overhead costs for deliveries,” said Dr. Alaniz. 

Supporting Displaced Communities in South Sudan

Direct Relief continues to support health and nutrition needs in South Sudan, where conflict-driven displacement has left many families facing severe food insecurity and limited access to care.

This month, Direct Relief shipped therapeutic nutrition products donated by Abbott to partners supporting internally displaced families in northern South Sudan. The distribution is underway through Transformation of the World in Christ, which is providing support to communities hosting people who have fled ongoing conflict in neighboring Sudan. 

Supplies are being distributed at multiple sites, including the Ajak-Kuac IDP/Refugee Camp and a clinic in Gogrial West County, to help address malnutrition among children.  

Operational Snapshot

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 584 shipments containing 5 million doses of medication this past week to organizations, including the following:

Around the World

Globally, Direct Relief shipped over 3.1 million defined daily doses of medication, totaling 75,184 lbs., to countries including the following:

YEAR-TO-DATE

Since January 1, 2025, Direct Relief has delivered 28.9K shipments to 2,725 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 90 countries. These shipments contained 315.2 million defined daily doses of medication, valued at $2 billion wholesale, totaling 4.2 million lbs.

IN THE NEWS

How Salesforce’s former CFO is scaling a humanitarian giant | Devex 

Devex Newswire: From Salesforce to Direct Relief, one leader’s journey | Devex 

Santa Barbara-based international aid group receives national recognition from Time Magazine | KCLU 

Carnival Cruise Line sends more supplies to Jamaica for Hurricane Melissa relief efforts 

Photo | Carnival, Direct Relief and Miami HEAT load hurricane relief supplies onto Carnival Horizon | Carnival Cruise Line 

Health Minister Tufton Deploys Mobile Clinic Donated by Direct Relief 

Direct Relief, partners deliver over US$3m in medical supplies to Jamaica | Lead Stories | Jamaica Gleaner 

Carnival-led initiative delivers medical relief to Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa | News | Jamaica Gleaner 

Call of Duty is getting a microtransaction nobody can get mad at: A unique premium skin whose proceeds will go to LA wildfire relief 

Carnival Horizon Sets Sail with Additional Hurricane Relief Supplies for Jamaica | Carnival Cruise Line 

Carnival, Direct Relief, Miami Heat send more relief supplies 

Direct Relief Named TIME Magazine’s Dreamer of the Year | LBBOnline 

Direct Relief Ships 68 Tons of Medical Aid to Jamaica Following Hurricane Melissa 

RWJBarnabas Health Returns to Puerto Rico to Provide Continued Medical Services 

Carnival Cruise Line Sends More Supplies to Jamaica for Hurricane Melissa Relief Efforts | TravelPulse 

Carnival, Miami HEAT back major medical relief effort for Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa – CNW Network 

Hurricane Relief Hits Jamaica As Carnival Horizon Delivers Essential Aid To The Island – Travel And Tour World 

Five Tons of Aid Are Sailing Toward Jamaica — Here’s Why It Matters 

Forbes 2025 Top Charities: Direct Relief Ranks #5 with 100% Efficiency Rating 

Miami Heat, Carnival Cruise Line to ship $1M in supplies for Melissa-impacted Jamaicans – WSVN 7News | Miami News, Weather, Sports | Fort Lauderdale 

Direct Relief recognised for contribution to Save Our Boys and Girls Foundation – Jamaica Observer 

The post Responding to Flooding in the Pacific Northwest, Supporting Displaced Communities in South Sudan, and More appeared first on Direct Relief.

Medications and supplies shipped this week included diabetes medications, antibiotics, medical devices, cold-chain equipment, and more.

Mobile Medical Teams Reach Frontline Communities in Ukraine

Medical teams in Ukraine from the organization, FRIDA, conducted four multidisciplinary missions over the past month, reaching some of the country’s hardest-hit and underserved communities.

The mobile health missions operated in areas as close as five miles from conflict areas, where shelling remains frequent and access to basic services like gas and water remains limited. In each village, residents lined up with their families — many traveling from neighboring communities — to receive care that has been unavailable for months or longer. 

Across the missions, clinicians provided mobile gynecology, dentistry, and a wide range of diagnostic services, delivering more than 3,484 medical interventions, including ultrasounds and other critical screening tests for health conditions. Several patients were identified for urgent follow-up care.  

Direct Relief provided critical medications and supplies to support the medical outreach, including antibiotics, chronic disease management medications, and more.

Medical Aid Continues for Flooded Areas of Mexico

Severe flooding and landslides triggered by Hurricane Priscilla devastated parts of Puebla and Hidalgo earlier this year, isolating mountain communities and disrupting access to essential care. Washed-out roads, damaged infrastructure, and continued rainfall have slowed recovery, leaving responders working with limited resources in hard-to-reach areas. 

In support of these efforts, Direct Relief, in collaboration with the nonprofit, Medical Impact, has deployed field medic packs to first responders and volunteer medical teams operating in the hardest-hit communities, including Huauchinango in the Sierra Norte of Puebla and villages across the Otomí-Tepehua region of Hidalgo.

The packs contain trauma supplies, essential medicines, and diagnostic tools that enable responders to stabilize patients where clinics remain inaccessible. Additional assistance has included more than one million units of medical and hygiene supplies, diagnostic items for affected health facilities, and flexible emergency funding for local partners.  

Direct Relief continues to coordinate with local authorities and protection agencies to provide requested medical supplies and support ongoing needs.

Operational Snapshot

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 398 shipments containing 1.6 million doses of medication this past week to organizations, including the following:

Around the World

Globally, Direct Relief shipped over 2.1 million defined daily doses of medication, totaling 35,611 lbs., to countries including the following:

YEAR-TO-DATE

Since January 1, 2025, Direct Relief has delivered 27.5K shipments to 2,689 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 88 countries. These shipments contained 295.5 million defined daily doses of medication, valued at $1.9 billion wholesale, totaling 3.9 million lbs.

IN THE NEWS

ICYMI: Nonprofit Social Strategies From WCK, Planned Parenthood and More 

Highlighting four awesome nonprofits for Giving Tuesday | Adobe Blog 

One Year of Hope – Anera 

Henry J. Austin Health Center receives Health Equity Fund grant | Trenton Downtowner | communitynews.org 

New Age | RMCH gets Tk 36cr biologic injections from US charity 

RMCH gets life-saving injections worth Tk 36 crore free | Others 

Metallica’s Charity — How the Four Members Are Giving Back 

PAHO ramps up support to Caribbean health systems one month after Hurricane Melissa – PAHO/WHO | Pan American Health Organization 

The post Frontline Medical Care Reaches Patients in Ukraine, Emergency Aid Delivered to Mexico appeared first on Direct Relief.

Medications and supplies shipped this week included diabetes treatments, rare disease therapies, oncology medications, nutritional products, and more.

Over-the-Counter Medicines Distributed at Native Health

Hundreds of families received holiday meals and essential supplies during Native Health’s annual turkey distribution events held this past weekend. Native Health, a community health center based in Phoenix, Arizona, organized the events with support from local partners.

In addition to food provided by the community, Direct Relief supplied hundreds of bottles of over-the-counter medications — including pain relievers, cold and flu treatments, and daily wellness supplements — that were distributed to families alongside the holiday groceries. Direct Relief staff were also present during the event, supporting Native Health teams and helping hand out materials throughout the day. 

Direct Relief will continue coordinating with Native Health, a long-standing partner and Urban Indian Health Program, to support upcoming outreach activities and ongoing community health needs across the Phoenix area. 

Diabetes Care Materials Prepared for Sudan Amid Ongoing Crisis

Direct Relief prepared a new shipment of diabetes care materials for delivery to Sudan, where access to essential treatment continues to be severely disrupted by the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The shipment includes 2.7 million insulin syringes and needles, which have been packed at Direct Relief’s headquarters in California. 

The shipment will support a mobile humanitarian response campaign organized by the Sudanese Diabetes Federation and partners. The campaign aims to deploy medical teams to provide diabetes care and testing services across multiple states beginning in January 2026. 

This latest shipment builds on Direct Relief’s broader support for health providers across Sudan, including large-scale insulin deliveries, cold-chain reinforcement with solar medical-grade refrigerators, and emergency medical supplies for patients with chronic and life-threatening conditions during the conflict. 

Direct Relief Equips University of Miami Doctors for Hurricane Melissa Response

Direct Relief is supporting ongoing Hurricane Melissa response efforts in Jamaica through its long-standing partnership with the University of Miami Global Institute at the Miller School of Medicine. Over the past two weeks, Direct Relief equipped the university’s medical team with field medic packs to aid communities impacted by the storm. 

The deployment was coordinated with the Jamaican Ministry of Health, and the medical team is currently based in Montego Bay, utilizing the backpacks to support clinical care across several sites. The packs have been used during home visits in Hanover Parish and at Savanna-la-Mar Hospital and Noel Holmes Hospital, where University of Miami clinicians continue to assist local providers as recovery needs evolve. 

Direct Relief has a longstanding relationship with the university, which most notably collaborated with the organization during the 2019 Hurricane Dorian response in the Bahamas.  

Direct Relief remains in close communication with partners on the ground and will continue supporting response efforts.

Operational Snapshot

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 462 shipments containing 860,979 doses of medication this past week to organizations, including the following:

Around the World

Globally, Direct Relief shipped over 2.2 million defined daily doses of medication, totaling 69,176 lbs., to countries including the following:

YEAR-TO-DATE

Since January 1, 2025, Direct Relief has delivered 27.1K shipments to 2,678 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 88 countries. These shipments contained 291.8 million defined daily doses of medication, valued at $1.9 billion wholesale, totaling 3.8 million lbs.

IN THE NEWS

‘FOX NFL Sunday’ crew honors personal causes through My Cause My Cleats campaign | Fox News Video 

Giving Starts at Home: Direct Relief on Its Mission and Global Reach | Good for Santa Barbara | Noozhawk 

30 charities to support on GoFundMe in 2025 

Inside the Vaseline Healing Project: How Vaseline Is Expanding Skin Health Access in LA 

Pentatonix Announces ‘Christmas in the City’ Tour Dates, Promising Boldest Holiday Show Yet – That Eric Alper 

Terry Bradshaw throws support behind initiative in passionate speech – Football – Sports – Daily Express US 

Breast Care International and partners deliver essential medicines as lifeline to patients across Ghana – MyJoyOnline 

The post Diabetes Therapies Depart for Sudan, Medications Distributed in Arizona, and More appeared first on Direct Relief.

Medications and supplies shipped this week included diabetes treatments, women’s health therapies, oncology medications, and more.

Two Thousand Pounds of Emergency Supplies Provided to U-VOL Foundation

A shipment of more than 2,000 pounds of emergency medicines and supplies was delivered to U-VOL Foundation in Benue State, Nigeria, where health facilities continue to support communities affected by conflict and ongoing displacement. U-VOL shared photos from a recent site visit with local hospital leaders and community partners as the materials were received. 

The shipment included field medic packs, oral rehydration salts, antibiotics, antihypertensives, and other essential medicines to strengthen emergency response capacity and support clinicians, nurses, and community health workers across low-resource and crisis-affected areas. 

Direct Relief will continue coordinating with U-VOL as the organization deploys the materials to health facilities and internally displaced persons sites throughout Benue State. Additional support will be provided as new requests are received and as conditions in the region evolve. 

Medical Aid Continues for Haiti, Post-Storm

This week, medical aid continued to depart for Hurricane Melissa-impacted communities in the Caribbean.

More than 7,000 pounds of medical support, including antibiotics, diagnostic equipment, medical tents, chronic disease medications, and more departed for the nonprofit organization, Hope for Haiti.

The organization operates Infirmary St. Etienne, a health clinic in Les Cayes, which provides care for more than 13,000 people annually on Haiti’s southern peninsula. Hope for Haiti continues to support individuals displaced by flooding and ongoing infrastructure damage across the region.

Community Health Fair in San Juan Expands Access to Specialized Care

A community health fair hosted on November 12 at Corporación La Fondita de Jesús in San Juan brought specialized medical services directly to individuals experiencing homelessness and substance use, as well as to residents from nearby communities. More than 101 participants attended the event, many accessing subspecialty care for the first time. 

Direct Relief organized the health fair in collaboration with RWJ Barnabas Health subspecialists, who provided a total of 145 clinical services, including pulmonology, OB/GYN, ENT, and podiatry evaluations.  

Community health organizations Health ProMed and Hoare supported referrals and follow-up appointments, while medical students from the Ponce School of Medicine assisted as translators and clinical support. Dr. PJ Vazquez also conducted home visits for three elderly individuals unable to attend. 

Direct Relief will continue working with La Fondita de Jesús and local health partners to explore opportunities for additional community-based events, strengthen referral pathways, and expand access to essential services for populations facing significant barriers to care. 

Operational Snapshot

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 596 shipments containing 411,459 doses of medication this past week to organizations, including the following:

Around the World

Globally, Direct Relief shipped over 5.5 million defined daily doses of medication, totaling 38,179 lbs., to countries including the following:

YEAR-TO-DATE

Since January 1, 2025, Direct Relief has delivered 26.6K shipments to 2,671 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 88 countries. These shipments contained 288.8 million defined daily doses of medication, valued at $1.9 billion wholesale, totaling 3.7 million lbs.

IN THE NEWS

Amy Weaver: Putting Purpose to Work | The Giving List 

Vaseline and Direct Relief Donate $100,000 to Support Mobile Medical Units, Expanding Skin Health Access in Los Angeles and New Orleans 

Rediscover Legends Reborn with the Masterful Remasters Bundle – Green Man Gaming Blog 

Embecta expands diabetes partnership with Direct Relief 

Vaseline & Direct Relief Donate $100,000 in Grants to Medical Mobile Unit | Happi 

embecta Expands Direct Relief Partnership, Donates 15M Units | EMBC Stock News 

Direct Relief Donates to Jason Henzell’s BREDS Foundation 

Carnival Returns to Jamaica After Hurricane Melissa | Travel Agent Central 

How is the cruise industry responding to Hurricane Melissa? 

Celebrities step up to offer aid for Jamaica’s recovery efforts after Hurricane Melissa 

Carnival Brings Cruise Ships Back to Ocho Rios, Jamaica Following Major Hurricane 

Ofrecen servicios médicos gratuitos a comunidades | Último Minuto | notiuno.com 

Direct Relief y La Fondita de Jesús llevan servicios de salud a comunidades vulnerables en Santurce – Ey Boricua 

Médicos voluntarios extienden su mano para ayudar a los participantes de la Fondita de Jesús – Primera Hora 

The post Emergency Aid Arrives in Nigeria and Haiti, Health Services Expand for Those in Puerto Rico appeared first on Direct Relief.

Medications and supplies shipped this week included diabetes therapies, rare disease treatments, pain-relief medications, cold-chain equipment, and more.

Direct Relief Boosts Support as Post-Melissa Health Needs Grow

Direct Relief continues supporting health facilities across the Caribbean as communities work to restore essential services following Hurricane Melissa. To date, several large scale shipments of emergency medical aid have been delivered across the region—including antibiotics, chronic disease therapies, first-aid supplies, IV solutions, and disease-prevention items.

 In Jamaica, Direct Relief staff have been in-country this week coordinating with the Ministry of Health and Wellness, PAHO, and local partners. Recent deliveries include the Nov. 8 chartered airlift of 16 tons of medical supplies and a follow-on shipment of insulin supporting the annual treatment needs of 300 children and youth with Type 1 diabetes. 

Direct Relief continues working closely with partners to meet ongoing health needs and strengthen recovery efforts across affected communities.

Mobilizing Support Following Back-to-Back Typhoons in the Philippines

Back-to-back storms — Typhoon Kalmaegi and Super Typhoon Fung-wong — have caused extensive flooding, landslides, and widespread damage across the Philippines, displacing more than 1 million people and leading to significant disruptions in health services.  A nationwide state of emergency remains in effect as authorities continue search and rescue operations and assess emerging health needs. 

Direct Relief has been in active communication with long-standing partners across the region, including the Philippines Disaster Resilience Foundation and the AHA Center, to assess medical needs as conditions evolve.  

A $10,000 emergency grant has been approved for PH-Wadah to support ongoing operations in Cebu and at its birthing center in Aborlan, Palawan, where flooding has disrupted maternal and child health services. Direct Relief has also made an emergency offer of medical aid to the Philippines Department of Health and is awaiting confirmation to mobilize additional shipments once the government declares its highest emergency rating. 

Direct Relief will continue to closely monitor the situation and prepare medical inventories for rapid deployment to support health facilities in affected communities as requests are received. 

Direct Relief’s New Europe Entity Completes First Donation with Teva

Direct Relief’s newly launched European entity has completed its first coordinated medicine donation, working with Teva to deliver essential treatments to logistics partner Logicall.  

The milestone follows the opening of Direct Relief’s European headquarters in Frankfurt earlier this month, where global partners and health leaders gathered to mark the organization’s expanded capacity to streamline EU-based donations and strengthen humanitarian supply chains.  

Operational Snapshot

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 667 shipments containing 1.3 million doses of medication this past week to organizations, including the following:

AROUND THE WORLD

Globally, Direct Relief shipped over 575,961 defined daily doses of medication, totaling 18,860 lbs., to countries including the following:

Year-to-Date

Since January 1, 2025, Direct Relief has delivered 26K shipments to 2,636 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 88 countries. These shipments contained 282.9 million defined daily doses of medication, valued at $1.9 billion wholesale, totaling 3.7 million lbs.

IN THE NEWS

On the Ground in Jamaica, Direct Relief Emergency Team Reports Devastation, Heroism after Melissa – Angels in Medicine 

Small Plane Carrying Hurricane Relief Supplies To Jamaica Crashes | WBZ NewsRadio 1030 | NightSide with Dan Rea 

How to Help Jamaica Relief Efforts After Hurricane Melissa 

Direct Relief Recognized as an Action for Women’s Health Awardee for Its Work To Expand Global Maternal Care 

Direct Relief donates medical supplies to Jamaica – Jamaica Observer

Small Plane Carrying Hurricane Relief Supplies To Jamaica Crashes | KFI AM 640 | Leo Laporte – The Tech Guy 

embecta Corp. Expands Partnership with Direct Relief to Enhance Access to Diabetes Supplies on World Diabetes Day 

embecta Announces Major New Commitment to Direct Relief

embecta Expands Direct Relief Partnership, Donates 15M Units | EMBC Stock News 

The post Medical Aid to Jamaica, Supporting Women’s Health in the Philippines and More appeared first on Direct Relief.

Medications and supplies shipped this week included rare disease therapies, diabetes medications, personal protective equipment, field medic packs for first responders, and more.

In Mexico, Expanding Health Services in Flooded Communities

Direct Relief is continuing its response to severe flooding in Mexico, working with partners to expand access to medical care in affected communities. This week, staff joined the NGO Medical Impact during a medical campaign in Huauchinango, Puebla — one of the areas hardest hit by last month’s flooding — and delivered 10 additional emergency medical backpacks donated by FedEx to support ongoing care. 

More than 100,000 households were affected by the floods, and Direct Relief teams and partner organizations continue to distribute medical supplies and assess needs as recovery efforts progress. More than 300 pallets of medical aid are currently being prepared for distribution to health facilities serving impacted families. 

Direct Relief Scales Emergency Medical Support to Jamaica with Charter Flight

Direct Relief is expanding its medical response in Jamaica as health facilities continue to face severe outages and supply shortages following Hurricane Melissa. To meet ongoing needs, Direct Relief has chartered a Boeing 757 scheduled to depart Miami on Nov. 8 with approximately 16 tons of emergency medical aid requested by Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and Wellness.

The airlift includes chronic disease medications, PPE, first-aid supplies, oral rehydration solutions, water purification tablets, and mosquito repellent, which public health officials have identified as critical due to rising vector-borne disease risk. A $50,000 emergency grant has also being provided to the JAHJAH Foundation to support local health and recovery efforts. 

Prepositioned hurricane preparedness packs and field medic packs have already been deployed in coordination with the Ministry of Health and Wellness, the National Health Fund, and PAHO, with additional shipments of essential medicines and other requested aid arriving in Kingston this week. 

Direct Relief Opens New European Headquarters

Direct Relief staff and global partners gathered in Frankfurt, Germany, for the launch of the organization’s new European headquarters on Nov. 3, 2025. The event brought together health leaders, pharmaceutical partners, and government representatives from across Europe and crisis-affected regions.

The event marked a major milestone in expanding the organization’s ability to deliver medical aid worldwide. Attendees described the moment as both long-awaited and deeply meaningful, with speakers from Ukraine, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East reflecting on the impact of Direct Relief’s support in their communities and the importance of strengthening humanitarian supply chains at a time of growing global need. 

Monitoring Impacts of Typhoon Kalmaegi in the Philippines and Vietnam

Direct Relief is closely monitoring the severe impacts of Typhoon Kalmaegi, which caused extensive flooding and landslides across the Philippines before moving west into Vietnam and neighboring countries. Hundreds of casualties have been reported, and authorities in both countries have declared states of emergency as response efforts continue.

Direct Relief has been in communication with longtime disaster response partners in the region, including the Philippines Disaster Resilience Foundation and the AHA Center. Direct Relief will continue to monitor the situation closely and remains ready to mobilize medical aid if needed. 

Operational Snapshot

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 607 shipments containing 403,760 doses of medication this past week to organizations, including the following:

AROUND THE WORLD

Globally, Direct Relief shipped over 6 million defined daily doses of medication, totaling 86,047 lbs., to countries including the following:

Year-to-Date

Since January 1, 2025, Direct Relief has delivered 25.3K shipments to 2,609 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 87 countries. These shipments contained 281.1 million defined daily doses of medication, valued at $1.8 billion wholesale, totaling 3.6 million lbs.

IN THE NEWS

Direct Relief Rushes Lifesaving Aid to Storm-Struck Jamaica | News Channel 3-12 

Direct Relief delivering life-saving medical supplies to Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa | Latest Weather Clips | FOX Weather 

Direct Relief Expands Global Humanitarian Operations With Opening of European Headquarters in Frankfurt 

Jamaica hurricane relief: How to help after storm strands farmworkers in Peru – Adirondack Almanack 

Holland America Line Joins Hurricane Melissa Relief Efforts – Cruise Industry News | Cruise News 

Carnival Horizon Makes Relief Call to Ocho Rios, Jamaica, Delivering Thousands of Hurricane Aid Supplies | Carnival Cruise Line 

Naples groups aid Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa. How to help 

In move to reach survivors in Haiti, millions for hurricane relief bypass government 

Direct Relief Mobilizes Emergency Response for Jamaica After Hurricane Melissa 

How to help Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa 

A Look at Carnival (CCL) Valuation After Its High-Profile Hurricane Relief Efforts in Jamaica – Simply Wall St News 

Grim death toll rises in Jamaica, as nation grapples with disaster left behind by historic Hurricane Melissa | Fox Weather 

Hurricane Melissa Recovery: How Airlines and Travel Brands Are Helping the Caribbean – Travel And Tour World 

Travel industry rallies to raise funds for Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa – News 

Improved Connectivity Expected In Western Jamaica This Week | RJR News – Jamaican News Online 

Carnival Horizon Delivers Vital Hurricane Relief Supplies to Jamaica – Jamaica Information Service 

Gov’t partners with OECS to boost healthcare resilience 

Direct Relief has provided Ukraine with $2 billion in aid: what healthcare professionals received – all the latest news today – Inkorr 

The post Emergency Response and Monitoring Continues in Mexico, Jamaica, and the Philippines appeared first on Direct Relief.

Medications and supplies shipped this week included N95 respirator masks, emergency medical backpacks, and treatments for diabetes and skin inflammation.

Direct Relief Continues to Send Critical Medical Aid to Jamaica Following Hurricane Melissa

Hurricane Melissa, one of the strongest Atlantic storms ever recorded, continues to cause severe damage across the Caribbean, with Jamaica hit hardest by winds exceeding 180 miles per hour and widespread flooding. Health facilities in Jamaica, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic have sustained significant damage, complicating ongoing relief efforts.

Direct Relief has committed $250,000 in emergency funding and dispatched multiple shipments of aid to the region, including field medic packs, hygiene kits, and other requested aid to support thousands of patients in affected communities. Medicines and supplies Direct Relief had already positioned in the region, including hurricane preparedness packs and field medic packs, have been deployed to affected areas.

Today, additional pallets of critical medical supplies, valued at roughly $1 million, are being prepared for shipment to Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and Wellness from Direct Relief’s Santa Barbara warehouse. In the shipment are antibiotics, mental health medications, drugs and supplies for diabetes, oral rehydration solutions, water purification tablets, prenatal vitamins, safety vests, and protective equipment, among other requested aid. Direct Relief staff are now on the ground in Jamaica to assess needs and coordinate response activities with the Ministry of Health, PAHO, and local partners.

Operational Snapshot

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 516 shipments containing 427,855 doses of medication this past week to organizations, including the following:

AROUND THE WORLD

Globally, Direct Relief shipped over 2.7 million defined daily doses of medication, totaling 47,076 lbs., to countries including the following:

Year-to-Date

Since January 1, 2025, Direct Relief has delivered 24.6K shipments to 2,597 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 87 countries. These shipments contained 275.5 million defined daily doses of medication, valued at $1.8 billion wholesale, totaling 3.5 million lbs.

IN THE NEWS

Santa Barbara’s Direct Relief Sends Aid to Hurricane Battered Caribbean – The Santa Barbara Independent

HEAT, CARNIVAL DONATE $1M TO DIRECT RELIEF IN SUPPORT OF HURRICANE RECOVERY EFFORTS | Miami Heat

Video Relief organization trying to reach Jamaica in wake of Hurricane Melissa – ABC News

How to help those impacted by Hurricane Melissa – NBC Boston

Direct Relief’s Ivonne Rodríguez on how to help Hurricane Melissa victims | KOA 850 AM & 94.1 FM | Colorado’s Morning News

11Alive News: The Take | Hurricane Melissa: A helping hand (10/30/25) | 11alive.com

Carnival donates $1m to Jamaica hurricane relief

Miami Heat and Carnival make $1M donation to Hurricane Melissa relief efforts | Miami | islandernews.com

Holland America Line Joins Hurricane Melissa Relief Efforts – Cruise Industry News | Cruise News

Heat, Carnival donate $1M to support hurricane recovery in Jamaica

Travel companies contribute to Hurricane Melissa relief efforts: Travel Weekly

Here’s how to help Hurricane Melissa victims

Local organization helping Hurricane Melissa response – KSTP.com 5 Eyewitness News

With Support From FedEx, Direct Relief Responds to Multiple Disasters

Carnival Makes Relief Donation to Jamaica Following Devastating Hurricane

How to help Hurricane Melissa victims

How To Help Those Impacted By Hurricane Melissa

Україна отримала понад $2 млрд підтримки від Direct Relief у сфері охорони здоров’я

The post A New Shipment to Jamaica Meets Post-Hurricane Needs, Part of Large-Scale Medical Aid Response appeared first on Direct Relief.

Medications and supplies shipped this week included treatments for diabetes, pain and inflammation, and bacterial infections.

Tropical Storm Melissa Gains Strength, Bringing Damage to the Caribbean

Tropical Storm Melissa continues to pose a major threat across the Caribbean, bringing heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and landslides to Haiti, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic. Three people have been killed as a result of the storm’s impacts in Haiti, and between 10–20 inches of rain are expected in southwestern Haiti and eastern Jamaica through Monday, with 6–12 inches expected across southern Haiti and the southern Dominican Republic.

Direct Relief has shipped more than $3 million in medical support recently to Jamaica, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic. The organization is also preparing 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.

The organization will continue to monitor medical needs as the storm’s impacts become known.

Direct Relief Expands Oxygen Access in The Gambia

Direct Relief’s Regional Director for Africa, Jeffrey Samuel, joined partners in The Gambia this month for the inauguration of a new medical oxygen system at Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital in Banjul.

The system, part of the larger AIRS project, provides reliable medical-grade oxygen and training for biomedical technicians, helping strengthen care for newborns and critically ill patients.

Government leaders, health officials, and the First Lady of the Gambia recognized Direct Relief’s ongoing support, including recent medical shipments that improved oxygen access nationwide.

Health Organizations from Across U.S. Share Learnings

Direct Relief hosted a two-day learning summit at its headquarters this week for 34 leaders from 18 health centers and free clinics. The gathering marked the completion of a two-year program, in partnership with Pfizer, that delivered more than 127,000 vaccinations and reached over 700,000 people in underserved communities.

Through the Innovation Awards in Community Health: Addressing Infectious Disease in Underserved Communities, Direct Relief and Pfizer invested $4.52 million in local programs that maintained trust between providers and the communities they serve.

Summit participants shared lessons learned, discussed strategies for sustaining community-based vaccination efforts, and explored opportunities for continued collaboration.

Operational Snapshot

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 550 shipments containing 1.9 million doses of medication this past week to organizations, including the following:

AROUND THE WORLD

Globally, Direct Relief shipped over 4.3 million defined daily doses of medication, totaling 34,925 lbs., to countries including the following:

YEAR-TO-DATE

Since January 1, 2025, Direct Relief has delivered 24.1K shipments to 2,588 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 86 countries. These shipments contained 272.4 million defined daily doses of medication, valued at $1.8 billion wholesale, totaling 3.5 million lbs.

IN THE NEWS

Direct Relief: Lebanon & Honduras — Humanitarian News Feed 

The OECS and Direct Relief Strengthen Vector Control and Surveillance in Antigua and Barbuda – iNews Cayman

Doctors Without Walls Updates Donors on Street Medicine Work — The Independent

ICM’s Midwives Data Hub a Finalist for Prestigious Anthem Award — International Confederation of Midwives

The Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH) in Banjul has commissioned its first medical oxygen production plant, an $8 million facility supported by Direct Relief and other partners. The plant is expected to ensure a steady supply of lifesaving oxygen and strengthen the hospital’s capacity to manage critical cases. | QTV Gambia | Facebook 

The post Responding to Tropical Storm Melissa, Oxygen Needs in West Africa, and More appeared first on Direct Relief.

Medications and supplies shipped this week included treatments for chronic conditions, mental health, pain relief, and surgical care.

Responding to Floods In Alaska, Post-Typhoon

In response to major flooding in areas of western Alaska, Direct Relief has been shipping medical aid to the state this week to support evacuees and others impacted by the storms. Direct Relief provided field medic packs and personal care items for displaced people to the Alaska Native Heritage Center, or ANHC, located in Anchorage.

A part of a statewide coalition of organizations, ANHC is working to coordinate relief provisions to directly impacted individuals. The organization is coordinating material aid to areas of greatest need, providing financial assistance to displaced families, and coordinating transportation of supplies to Southwest Alaska. ANHC will also receive $50,000 to support emergency response costs.

Direct Relief has provided more than $5 million in medical and financial support to organizations across the state since 2008, and will continue to respond to needs arising from the recent floods.

Medical Deliveries Support Critical Health Services in South Sudan

Medical aid from Direct Relief is being used to provide health services in South Sudan via the non-profit, the MAMA Project. The group and other in-country partners distributed donated medicines and medical supplies to six primary health care units and Mother Teresa Hospital in Twic and Gogrial West counties of Warrap State. The deliveries, coordinated with local health authorities, restored essential care in communities that had gone months without medical supplies. 

The supplies enabled medical teams to resume treatment for a wide range of preventable and infectious diseases and respond to trauma and emergency cases. Additional donations, including surgical tools and emergency medical backpacks, strengthened clinical capacity at Mother Teresa Hospital, while personal care items distributed to women and girls helped address critical health and hygiene needs among displaced populations.

Local health workers reported sharp improvements in service delivery following the arrival of the medications, which filled significant gaps left by delayed public supply chains.  

Dr. Bith Kondok, an anesthetist at Mother Teresa Hospital, noted that gaps in medication supplies made the Direct Relief-supported deliveries “critical to sustaining lifesaving treatment” for people already living in South Sudan and displaced people arriving from other countries. 

Direct Relief remains committed to supporting frontline health services in Warrap State and expanding access to essential medicines in areas facing severe humanitarian strain. 

Emergency Medical Aid Delivered After Severe Flooding in Mexico

This past month, severe flooding triggered by Tropical Storms Priscilla, Raymond, and Gerry, combined with weeks of heavy monsoon rains, has devastated large areas of central Mexico. More than 200,000 people have been displaced, and many communities remain isolated due to collapsed bridges and landslides. With health services disrupted, local authorities report growing humanitarian needs, particularly among communities in temporary shelters and rural areas now difficult to reach by ground. 

In response, Direct Relief has mobilized emergency medical support to restore access to care, prioritizing treatment for respiratory infections, injuries, waterborne illnesses, and chronic disease disruptions such as diabetes and hypertension.  

To date, Direct Relief has delivered over $90,000 in medical aid, including essential medicines and field medic packs for triage and trauma care. Direct Relief has also provided $25,000 in emergency grant funding to strengthen local medical outreach and support partner response operations.

Additional assistance is underway in coordination with Mexico’s Secretariat of National Defense (SEDENA), the Guerrero Ministry of Health Urgent Care Unit, and Medical IMPACT as evolving health needs continue to emerge. 

Operational Snapshot

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 755 shipments containing 4 million doses of medication this past week to organizations, including the following:

AROUND THE WORLD

Globally, Direct Relief shipped over 24.8 million defined daily doses of medication, totaling 111,203 lbs., to countries including the following:

YEAR-TO-DATE

Since January 1, 2025, Direct Relief has delivered 23.5K shipments to 2,569 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 86 countries. These shipments contained 266.2 million defined daily doses of medication, valued at $1.8 billion wholesale, totaling 3.4 million lbs.

IN THE NEWS

Direct Relief Mobilizes Ahead of Storm in Southern California | News Channel 3-12 

Mitski Surprise-Releases The Land: The Live Album | Pitchfork 

“La tormenta”, documental sobre la recuperación de Puerto Rico tras el huracán María, se presentará en el Lusca Film Fest – El Nuevo Día 

Anthem Awards Community Voice 

SEEHN Secretariat Meets with Direct Relief Representatives to Explore Regional Collaboration | SEEHN 

FedEx Helps Direct Relief Sustain Response to Landslides in Rural India 

The post Medical Support Departs for Alaska, Mexico Flood Response Efforts appeared first on Direct Relief.

Medications and supplies shipped this week included treatments for chronic health conditions and mental health, as well as emergency response support.

Infants in Lebanon Breathe Easier with Respiratory Medicines

A critical medication for infants who need respiratory support has arrived at 10 hospitals in Lebanon. Nonprofit Anera has delivered Beractant-Survanta, a critical lung surfactant for premature infants born before 34 weeks, to the NICUs of 10 public hospitals across the country.  

The medication, donated by Direct Relief, helps babies born prematurely to breathe until their lungs are strong enough to do it on their own. The donation is the most recent shipment of this life-saving medicine, covering the national need for five months and estimated to save the lives of 150 newborns, increasing survival rates by at least 45% compared to similar treatments, according to Anera. 

Direct Relief has provided more than $261 million in medical support to Lebanon since 2009.

Medication Hub in Honduras Gets Aid the Last Mile

This week, the Ruth Paz Foundation in Honduras highlighted ongoing activity at the medical warehouse and distribution center in San Pedro Sula, where medicines and health supplies are continuing to move through the facility to reach hospitals and clinics across the country.

The distribution center, developed with funding and support from Direct Relief and inaugurated in April 2024, has strengthened Honduras’s medical supply chain by improving storage capacity and inventory management. With the facility integrated into regular operations, Ruth Paz is able to manage larger shipments and ensure a steady flow of essential medicines to patients who face barriers to care.

The site also serves as a key resource during emergencies, helping local healthcare providers respond more quickly to hurricanes, disease outbreaks, and other crises.

Direct Relief has partnered with the Ruth Paz Foundation for more than a decade, providing over $34 million in medical material aid.

Tropical Storm Jerry Churns Through Atlantic

Direct Relief is monitoring Tropical Storm Jerry as warnings remain in effect across parts of the Eastern Caribbean. While the storm is not currently forecast to make landfall, heavy rain and storm surge are expected in the region.

Direct Relief has coordinated with regional partner the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and remains ready to support. Emergency resources already prepositioned in the region include three Hurricane Preparedness Packs and 54 emergency medical backpacks for rapid deployment. Recent resilience investments through Direct Relief’s $3 million grant to OECS have also strengthened medical infrastructure and emergency readiness across the region.

Direct Relief Equips Search and Rescue Organization with New Vehicle

With support from Direct Relief, Ventura County East Valley Search and Rescue has enhanced its emergency response capacity with a new 4×4 rescue vehicle. The vehicle was funded through Direct Relief’s Search and Rescue Fund, which provides equipment and operational support to volunteer rescue teams responding to emergencies and disasters.

The new vehicle is currently in active use for search and rescue missions in remote or difficult terrain, and evacuations of residents who cannot safely leave on their own. The vehicle also supports field logistics, such as transporting water, equipment, and medical supplies.

In addition to vehicle funding, Direct Relief provided emergency operating funds during the recent Los Angeles wildfires to support the team’s mutual aid deployments.

Operational Snapshot

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 444 shipments containing 1.8 million doses of medication this past week to organizations, including the following:

AROUND THE WORLD

Globally, Direct Relief shipped over 8.8 million defined daily doses of medication, totaling 68,909 lbs., to countries including the following:

YEAR-TO-DATE

Since January 1, 2025, Direct Relief has delivered 22.7K shipments to 2,550 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 86 countries. These shipments contained 241.3 million defined daily doses of medication, valued at $1.6 billion wholesale, totaling 3.3 million lbs.

The post Helping Infants Breathe in Lebanon, Distributing Medicines in Honduras, and More appeared first on Direct Relief.

Medications and supplies shipped this week included treatments for hormonal health, mental health, diabetes, cancer therapies, and pediatric care.

Cancer Therapies Bound for Ghana

This week, Direct Relief shipped essential medicines, including cancer treatments, to Ghana to support Breast Care International, a nonprofit providing lifesaving treatment, education, and awareness programs for women facing breast cancer. 

The shipment was made possible through Teva’s Breast Cancer Access Program — a partnership between Teva, Breast Care International, and Direct Relief — which ensures up to 400 women in Ghana each year can access essential cancer medicines. In a country where as many as 70% of breast cancer cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, timely access to medication is often the difference between life and death. 

In addition to cancer medicines, the delivery included treatments for heart conditions, infections, mental health, and general patient care — covering both essential and supportive therapies. 

Direct Relief staff recently visited BCI in Ghana, further underscoring the importance of this long-standing partnership and the urgent need to expand access to care. Since 2014, Direct Relief has provided more than $100 million in medical support to BCI, working alongside Dr. Beatrice Wiafe Addai and her team to strengthen early detection, treatment, and cancer care nationwide. 

Personal Care Kits Distributed at Pasadena Fire Recovery Fair

Earlier this week, Shared Harvest and DENA Forward distributed Direct Relief-donated personal care items at a Pasadena community fair for families affected by the Eaton Fire. The kits help families meet basic needs and safeguard their health as the community continues recovering from the fires earlier this year. In addition, the event provided residents with health screenings, educational resources, and other recovery services. 

By working alongside partners like Shared Harvest and DENA, Direct Relief helps ensure communities have access to both immediate relief items and the broader support needed to recover and rebuild. 

At the same time, Direct Relief hosted a volunteer packing event at its Santa Barbara headquarters, where volunteers assembled dental care kits for children to be distributed to local organizations across Santa Barbara County.

Restoring Access to Care: Grants Supporting Maui’s Recovery

Following the devastating Maui wildfires in 2023, Direct Relief partnered with Mauliola Pharmacy to ensure displaced residents maintained access to essential medicines and care. Direct Relief supported these emergency efforts with funding and shipments of requested medicines, vaccines, medical supplies, and personal protective equipment. 

Beyond emergency response, Direct Relief has continued to support Mauliola Pharmacy’s sister organization, Nohona Health, which blends traditional Native Hawaiian healing with modern medicine. With grant funding, Nohona Health built a greenhouse to expand access to medicinal plants, strengthen cultural education, and create new opportunities for emotional and physical healing. 

From urgent medication access to long-term community healing, Direct Relief’s partnerships in Maui reflect a broader commitment: supporting locally led recovery and resilience initiatives long after the immediate crisis has passed. 

Ryan’s Bar Mitzvah Project Supports Communities Affected by Floods

Direct Relief’s mission to support people affected by disasters recently inspired 13-year-old Ryan to select the organization as the focus of his bar mitzvah project. Drawing from his Torah portion, the story of Noah and the flood, Ryan wanted to give back by supporting an organization that helps people impacted by flooding and other disasters. 

To raise funds, Ryan organized a bake sale at his synagogue, preparing all the treats himself. His efforts raised $277, which he generously donated online to Direct Relief. His support comes at a critical time, as Direct Relief continues to respond to severe flooding events worldwide, including the recent floods in Texas, Bali, and Pakistan. 

Contributions like Ryan’s help ensure that communities affected by disasters have access to the medical aid they need. Direct Relief is grateful for Ryan’s generosity — and for the many others who support its mission to improve the health and lives of people affected by emergencies. 

Operational Snapshot

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 543 shipments containing 1.9 million doses of medication this past week to organizations, including the following:

Around the World

Globally, Direct Relief shipped over 11.4 million defined daily doses of medication, totaling 66,733 lbs., to countries including the following:

YEAR-TO-DATE

Since January 1, 2025, Direct Relief has delivered 22.2K shipments to 2,515 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 86 countries. These shipments contained 230.8 million defined daily doses of medication, valued at $1.6 billion wholesale, totaling 3.2 million lbs.

The post Strengthening Women’s Health in Ghana, Ongoing Response to L.A., Maui Fires, and More appeared first on Direct Relief.

Medications and supplies shipped this week included treatments for diabetes, rare diseases, autoimmune conditions, and bone health.

Direct Relief Supports Bali Flood Response with Emergency Funding

Severe flooding and landslides this week have left at least 19 people dead, hundreds displaced, and thousands more affected across six of Bali’s eight regions. Bali’s capital, Denpasar, was among the hardest hit as torrential rains flooded neighborhoods, damaged infrastructure, and set off landslides.

In response to the floods in Bali, Direct Relief has committed $12,000 in emergency funding to support its long-term partner, Bumi Sehat. Led by founder Robin Lim, Bumi Sehat is a respected maternal and child health organization that has supported mothers, children, and families while responding to disasters worldwide since 1995.

Direct Relief has partnered with Bumi through numerous crises since 2010. Bumi’s disaster response team has now been deployed in Bali and is providing essential medical and hygiene items to families affected by the floods. 

As relief efforts continue, Direct Relief remains in close contact with Bumi Sehat to ensure ongoing support as community needs evolve. 

Direct Relief Welcomes Community to Open House

This week, Direct Relief hosted an open house at the organization’s Santa Barbara, California,headquarters. Staff welcomed more than 300 community members for an inside look at how humanitarian aid is distributed globally. 

Visitors had the chance to explore Direct Relief’s humanitarian assistance programs, gain insight into the organization’s global impact through interactive presentations, and learn more about ongoing emergency response efforts. Guests also enjoyed self-guided tours through the state-of-the-art distribution center, where they saw emergency medical aid staged for deployment and met the team that helps power Direct Relief’s mission. 

Tropical Storm Nando Intensifies Over the Philippine Sea

Tropical Storm Nando (Ragasa) has formed over the Philippine Sea and is expected to strengthen quickly in the coming days, with forecasts warning it could reach super typhoon strength as it nears northern Luzon this weekend. Current projections show the storm bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and possible flooding to parts of the Philippines beginning September 20. 

Direct Relief will continue monitoring the storm and remains ready to support health organizations in the region should the storm pose a threat to communities and health systems. 

Operational Snapshot

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 800 shipments containing 1.3 million doses of medication this past week to organizations, including the following:

Around the World

Globally, Direct Relief shipped over 19.2 million defined daily doses of medication, totaling 122,464 lbs., to countries including the following:

YEAR-TO-DATE

Since January 1, 2025, Direct Relief has delivered 21.2K shipments to 2,457 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 86 countries. These shipments included 210.6 million defined daily doses of medication, valued at $1.5 billion wholesale, totaling 3.1 million lbs.

In the News

Direct Relief Hosts Annual Open House in Santa Barbara – KEYT

Emergency Program to Support Nurses in Gaza and the West Bank – International Council of Nurses

Celebrating 10 Years with Direct Relief – Neighborhood Health Clinic

The post More than 20 Million Doses of Medication Dispatched, Bali Flood Response, and More appeared first on Direct Relief.

Medications and supplies shipped this week included rare disease treatments, diabetes medications, autoimmune therapies, and IV fluids.

Direct Relief Welcomes Partners from Nepal’s Dhulikhel Hospital

On Tuesday, Direct Relief welcomed longtime partners from Dhulikhel Hospital in Nepal to the organization’s Santa Barbara, California, headquarters. Dr. Ram Kantha Makaju Shrestha, founder and executive director, and Dr. Abha Shrestha, senior consultant in obstetrics and gynecology, toured the organization’s warehouse and briefed staff about the hospital’s work in Nepal.

Dhulikhel Hospital, based in Nepal’s Kathmandu Valley, is a leading non-profit hospital known for expanding access to quality healthcare, training future medical leaders, and serving underserved communities. 

Direct Relief has worked with Dhulikhel Hospital for more than a decade, collaborating on disaster response (including the 2015 earthquake, Covid-19 pandemic, and 2024 flooding) and supporting ongoing medical donation programs.

Portable Ultrasound Devices Expand Care for Patients in Ukraine

Last week, the Association Internationale de Coopération Médicale, or AICM, shared that 140 family doctors and pediatricians in Chernihiv, Ukraine, are now using the mini-ultrasound device “Papillon,”enabling earlier detection of serious health issues and referrals for specialized care. More than 2,500 patients have been examined monthly free of charge, and ongoing trainings — including one last week on urological health — continue to expand the program’s impact.

Direct Relief is proud to partner with AICM on this work. In 2022, Direct Relief provided a $100,000 grant to help supply portable ultrasound devices and training for medical staff in the Chernihiv region, reducing delays in diagnosis and improving access to care. This collaboration continues to strengthen health systems and provide life-saving support in Ukraine.

Operational Snapshot

UNITED STATES

Direct Relief delivered 509 shipments containing 327,379 doses of medication this past week to organizations, including the following:

Around the World

Globally, Direct Relief shipped over 406,317 defined daily doses of medication, totaling 11,588 lbs., to countries including the following:

YEAR-TO-DATE

Since January 1, 2025, Direct Relief has delivered 20.4K shipments to 2,438 partner organizations in 54 U.S. states and territories and 86 countries. These shipments included 190.2 million defined daily doses of medication, valued at $1.5 billion wholesale, totaling 2.9 million lbs.

The post Medical Support Dispatched to 10 Countries Over Past Week appeared first on Direct Relief.