At a time when international aid and medicinal supplies are imperative for Sri Lanka, upon an urgent request for assistance from Ambassador of Sri Lanka in Washington D.C. Mahinda Samarasinghe and the Mission, the support of three renowned U.S. NGOs was generously extended on an in-kind basis to the people of Sri Lanka. The most recent figures show that from July 2022 to date, the Mission along with the Ministry of Health in Sri Lanka has coordinated and facilitated a total of approx. USD 53.9 million worth (approx. LKR 17,067,973,528) of in-kind medicinal donations from the U.S. at no cost to the people of Sri Lanka. Some of the key medicines/medical supplies that were donated from the below-listed NGOs are an extensive amount of crucial pain medication and antibiotics, medicines to treat high blood pressure and other heart problems, medicines to treat mental/mood conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, etc., immunosuppressant used for organ transplants, oncology (cancer) medicines, medicines to treat symptoms of asthma and shortness of breathing, prenatal and lactation vitamins, Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS) for maternal mothers at risk of malnourishment, and chronic disease medications, intravascular catheters, syringes, and gloves.
The most recent consignment facilitated by the Sri Lankan Embassy in Washington was generously donated by Americares with the value of USD 201,208.32 (approx.LKR 63,632,131), marking another milestone in international cooperation and humanitarian aid. Cleared by the Ministry of Health for distribution on 20 February 2024, this contribution among the rest of the consignments provided by the below mentioned partners advances the power of collaboration in addressing pressing healthcare needs in Sri Lanka.
Heart to Heart International (HHI) continues to be one of key partners in providing in-kind medicinal donations to Sri Lanka. To date, HHI has donated lifesaving medicines worth approx. USD 46.8 million with zero expenses to the Government and/or people of Sri Lanka. Headquartered in Lenexa, Kansas, Heart to Heart International (HHI) is a global humanitarian organization focused on improving access to health. Since its inception in 1992, HHI has delivered medical aid and supplies worth $2.6 billion to more than 130 countries, including within the United States.
Americares is another key partner NGO in providing in-kind medicinal donations to Sri Lanka. Thus far, Americares has donated lifesaving medicines worth USD 4.4 million. Americares is a health-focused relief and development organization that saves lives and improves health for people affected by poverty or disaster. Each year, the organization reaches 85 countries on average, including the United States, with life-changing health programs, medicine, medical supplies, and emergency aid. Since its founding more than 40 years ago, Americares has provided more than $20 billion in aid to 164 countries, including the United States.
In addition, HOPE Worldwide donated essential medicines worth USD 2.7 million in September 2022. In response to serving the materially poor, sick, and suffering throughout the world, HOPE was established in 1991. HOPE partners with countries in need, equips volunteers, responds to disasters, and strengthens communities to inspire greater hope in our world.
The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Washington, D.C. greatly appreciates the continued assistance provided by all these organizations.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Washington D.C.
22 February 2024
