Medical Supplies for Hospitals in Haiti

For the past two years, VIDA has embarked on a grassroots strategy to bring medical aid to the poorest areas of Haiti. In response to the terrible living conditions, VIDA has sought new partnerships to send additional aid to our project in Cayes Jacmel. The vast majority of the city’s residents are unable to secure the basic necessities of life such as food, clothing and shelter. This terrible poverty has left many without hope for a better future and has led to illness, violence and despair.

Thanks to a generous donation by Gymboree, VIDA has just sent over $100,000 in children’s clothing to the city. It is anticipated that over 2,000 children will be fitted with clothing and shoes from this one shipment due to arrive in September. The project is managed by a medical team led by Haitian born physician, Alix J.Magloir. Dr. Alix and his team have been providing critical care to tens of thousands residents with the aid of VIDA. In addition to the clothing, VIDA sent over $50,000 in respiratory supplies.

VIDA is already working on its next shipment that will contain additional Gymboree donations as well as wound care supplies. Additionally, VIDA will also be providing room in the shipment for a large donation of musical instruments to benefit the development of a youth orchestra and marching band. The gift of music can go a long way in improving youth mental health, help foster their creative spirit, and give them hope for a better future.

VIDA's work in Cayes Jacmel is an example of a holistic approach that leverages our capacity to efficiently redirect surplus supplies in the United States to people in need in developing countries. This has allowed VIDA to send $150 in aid for every $1 collected.