U.S pledges $10 million to provide medicine and medical supplies to Palestinian people
25 Palestinian NGOs in Gaza to receive immediate shipment
RAMALLAH, WEST BANK – Two trucks carrying approximately $75,000 worth of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies were sent to local clinics in Gaza on May 10, 2006. The shipment was made following a pledge on May 9 by U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice of $10 million in medicine and related supplies to help meet the urgent health needs of the Palestinian people.
The first $4 million share of this pledge is being made under the Emergency Medical Assistance Program (EMAP). EMAP, implemented by CARE/West Bank & Gaza, mobilizes resources from the US Agency for International Development (USAID) quickly and effectively in response to urgent humanitarian requirements for pharmaceuticals and medical supplies. Additional assistance pursuant to Dr. Rice's pledge will be implemented through CARE and an additional grant to UNICEF.
Today's shipment was launched at CARE's Ramallah warehouse by US Consul General Jake Walles and USAID Mission Director Jim Bever.
Prior to shipment, CARE conducted a needs assessment to determine the appropriate composition of each clinic shipment. The pharmaceuticals, 96% of which were manufactured locally, include basic medicines such as drugs for treating blood pressure and diabetes. Each distribution undergoes quality control checks and is monitored and evaluated by USAID and appropriate health care partners.
Since 1993, USAID has provided Palestinians with more than $1.7 billion in economic assistance.
Country: United States of America
Subject: Assistance
Publication Date: 10/05/2006