At a time when international aid and medical supplies are critical for Sri Lanka, three prominent US NGOs have generously provided in-kind support following an urgent request for assistance from Ambassador Mahinda Samarasinghe and the Mission in Washington, DC. Foundation to the people of Sri Lanka.
Latest figures show that from July 2022 to date, the Mission has provided approximately 2 million total interventions in collaboration with the Sri Lankan Ministry of Health. In-kind medical donations from the United States worth US$53.9 million (approximately Rs. 17,067,973,528) will be provided free of charge to the people of Sri Lanka. The main medicines/medical supplies donated by the NGOs listed below include large quantities of important painkillers and antibiotics, medicines to treat high blood pressure and other heart conditions, and medicines to treat mental/mood conditions such as depression. , schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, etc., immunosuppressive drugs used in organ transplants, oncology (cancer) drugs, drugs to treat symptoms of asthma and shortness of breath, prenatal and breastfeeding vitamins, and risks of malnutrition. Multiple micronutrient supplements (MMS) for some mothers, medications for chronic diseases, intravascular catheters, syringes, gloves, etc.
The latest consignment supported by the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Washington received a generous donation worth US$201,208.32 (approximately Rs. 63,632,131) from Americares, marking a new milestone in international cooperation and humanitarian assistance. Authorized for distribution by the Ministry of Health on February 20, 2024, this donation, of the remaining consignments provided by the partners listed below, recognizes the power of collaboration to address urgent health needs in Sri Lanka. It is something that moves forward.
Heart to Heart International (HHI) continues to be one of our key partners providing in-kind donations of medicines to Sri Lanka. To date, HHI has donated approximately $1,000 worth of life-saving medications. No expenditure to the Government and/or people of Sri Lanka at US$46.8 million. Heart to Heart International (HHI), headquartered in Lenexa, Kansas, is a global humanitarian organization focused on improving access to health. Since its founding in 1992, HHI has delivered $2.6 billion worth of medical aid and supplies to more than 130 countries, including within the United States.
Americares is another important partner NGO providing in-kind donations of medicines to Sri Lanka. To date, Americares has donated $4.4 million worth of life-saving medicines. Americares is a health-focused relief and development organization that saves lives and improves health for people affected by poverty and disaster. The organization provides life-changing health programs, medicines, medical supplies and emergency assistance to an average of 85 countries each year, including the United States. Since its founding more than 40 years ago, Americares has provided more than $20 billion in aid to 164 countries, including the United States.
Additionally, HOPE Worldwide donated US$2.7 million worth of essential medicines in September 2022. HOPE was founded in 1991 to serve the materially poor, sick and suffering people around the world. HOPE partners with countries in need, deploying volunteers and providing medical services. The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Washington DC is deeply grateful for the continued support of all these organizations.
