Global Update: Aid to Haiti, Covid-19 and Homelessness, Whole-Person Diabetes Care

In Summary

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In the Aftermath of the Haiti Earthquake, Supporting Providers On the Ground

In this 2017 file photo, Maison de Naissance staff provide care for expectant mothers and newborns in Torbeck, Haiti. After last month’s 7.2-magnitude earthquake, clinic staff have been working to keep care continuous for area families that might otherwise not receive pre- or post-natal support. (Photo by Liam Storrings for Direct Relief)

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

A San Francisco Community Health Center staff member distributes pamphlets to people in San Francisco’s Tenderloin district. (Photo courtesy of San Francisco Community Health Center)

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

Clinical Pharmacist Danielle Cortez evaluates a patient as part of the chronic disease clinical pharmacy program at Northeast Valley Health Center, which provides comprehensive primary healthcare to medically underserved residents of Los Angeles County, particularly in the San Fernando and Santa Clarita Valleys. ( Photo by Donnie Lloyd Hedden Jr. for Direct Relief)

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

A Clínica Romero staff member gives a patient a Covid-19 vaccine. (Photo courtesy of Clínica Romero)

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.

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