Mobilizing—And More

IMA World Health mobilized quickly to respond to the earthquake in Haiti. We have already air shipped more than $500,000 worth of medicines and medical supplies to the troubled nation, with another $250,000 worth ready to go. Shipments include IMA Medicine Boxes®, which have basic pain medications, antibiotics, ointments, and bandages to typically treat up to 1,000 people. We also are supplying Safe Motherhood Kits—with hospitals and clinics severely damaged, supplies for clean birthing are needed more than ever.

Supplies of medicines are urgently needed, but to respond we need your support. We are efficient in handling funds, and effective in getting them where needed through our work with many partners both in and outside Haiti. This is not a stop-gap response. IMA President and CEO Rick Santos pledged to stay in Haiti until they no longer need our help.

Longer Range Response Paul Derstine, retired president of IMA World Health, has agreed to become the point person for responding to the disaster in Haiti. He will be traveling to Haiti to develop a full assessment of the situation to determine an effective long-term response to the crisis.

It is rare to have someone of Paul’s stature, knowledge and qualifications available to oversee this work. Paul lived in Haiti for a number of years prior to joining IMA. He has a deep love for the people of Haiti; he knows the country and speaks the language. He is known by the Ministry of Health, IMA staff, partner agencies, hospitals, clinics, and community leaders. In short, he is uniquely qualified for this role.

In addition, Dr. Abdel Direny, head of IMA’s office in Port au Prince, will work with Paul in developing plans. Dr. Direny, a Haitian citizen, has extensive contacts both in-country and with other international agencies. His skills and knowledge will help facilitate effective coordination, a necessary part of getting aid quickly to those who need it most.