Kaiser Permanente Commits to Earthquake and Hurricane Relief

A succession of natural disasters over the past two months prompted Kaiser Permanente to make a series of disaster relief commitments totaling $3 million.

Last week Kaiser Permanente announced that it will pledge $1 million to earthquake relief and recovery efforts in Mexico, including support for mental health and wellness needs, and an additional $1 million to provide public health support in hurricane-ravaged Puerto Rico. Earlier in September, Kaiser Permanente committed $1 million to help those affected by Hurricane Harvey.

In Mexico, Kaiser Permanente is partnering with International Medical Corps, a global humanitarian nonprofit organization established by volunteer physicians in 1984. In Puerto Rico, Kaiser Permanente’s contribution will be made to the CDC Foundation.

The CDC Foundation is an independent nonprofit created to mobilize philanthropic and private-sector resources to extend the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) lifesaving work. Kaiser Permanente’s contribution to the CDC Foundation will support relief, recovery and rebuilding of public health infrastructure, and longer-term emergency preparedness. Kaiser Permanente previously supported the CDC Foundation after Hurricane Katrina and in response to the 2010 earthquake in Haiti.

Half of Kaiser Permanente’s $1 million contribution for those affected by Hurricane Harvey goes to the American Red Cross for immediate needs, such as medical care, food, shelter, and clothing. The other half goes to Mental Health America, Greater Houston Chapter, to provide mental health and emotional support for survivors, first responders, and others affected by the storm.