From left to right: Dr. Byron Scott, COO Direct Relief , Dr. John Vaz, CEO Mālama I Ke Ola Health Center, Annie Vu, Associate Director, U.S. Emergency Response Direct Relief, Brea Burkholz, Manager, Public Relations Direct Relief
NACHC’s partner, the global humanitarian organization Direct Relief, recently stopped by Maui to present a $1 million grant to Mālama I Ke Ola Health Center in Maui – the single largest grant ever awarded by the organization to a Community Health Center. The financial support from Direct Relief aims to bolster wildfire recovery efforts and fortify the health center’s operations following the catastrophic Maui fires of August 8, 2023.
The Maui wildfires inflicted widespread devastation on the Maui community, underscoring the critical need for comprehensive healthcare services in the aftermath of such disasters. Acknowledging the pivotal role Mālama I Ke Ola Health Center plays in the community, Direct Relief’s historic grant aims to empower the health center to provide essential healthcare resources, support immediate medical needs, and enhance overall capacity to serve the affected community.
Recognized for its commitment to transparency, efficiency, and accountability, Direct Relief provides targeted assistance to communities in need, regardless of politics, religion, or ability to pay. Direct Relief has been a steadfast supporter of Community Health Centers across the United States, demonstrating a strong commitment to improving healthcare access for underserved populations. Identifying the crucial role that Community Health Centers play in providing comprehensive and affordable healthcare, Direct Relief has collaborated extensively with the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) to amplify their impact.
“NACHC is deeply appreciative of the generous grant to Mālama I Ke Ola Health Center,” said Kyu Rhee, MD, MPP, President and CEO of NACHC. “The human toll and tragedy that Lahaina residents experienced from the wildfires will take a long recovery. The funding will allow Mālama I Ke Ola Health Center to rebuild infrastructure, provide essential services to the community and help affected island residents heal. Community Health Centers, such as Mālama I Ke Ola Health Center, reach beyond the walls of the exam room to address island health disparities that include higher rates of chronic disease and premature death from environmental factors, including natural disasters. We are grateful for our longstanding partnership and collaboration with Direct Relief to support Community Health Centers as they carry out their mission as the first and last frontline responders to disasters and devastation.”
View the press release here.