Kaiser Permanente Pledges $1-Million For Mexican Earthquake Relief

Kaiser Permanente today pledged $1 million to support first responders’ efforts in Mexico following multiple destructive earthquakes in the last few weeks.

The contribution from the nation’s largest integrated health system will go to International Medical Corps, a global humanitarian nonprofit organization established by volunteer physicians in 1984. Kaiser Permanente’s contribution will help International Medical Corps conduct an on-the-ground assessment of needs in the affected areas and assist with local relief and recovery efforts, including support for the mental health and wellness needs of those impacted.

“Our hearts are with all those affected by the devastation and loss of life from the earthquakes that struck central Mexico,” said Bechara Choucair, MD, senior vice president and chief community health officer for Kaiser Permanente. “Many of our employees and members have loved ones in the areas that were impacted. We felt it was imperative that we offer our help and resources in this critical time of need.”

Both organizations are sending disaster response experts and medical professionals to Mexico City on Tuesday, September 26 to support immediate relief and recovery efforts.

"Kaiser Permanente's extraordinary commitment to deploy staff and their swift and generous support will ensure that International Medical Corps can help meet families' greatest needs and mobilize health care, supplies and other assistance that will help communities in Mexico as they begin to recover and rebuild," said Nancy Aossey, President & CEO of International Medical Corps.

As Kaiser Permanente supports these efforts in Mexico, the organization continues to monitor the areas impacted by this year’s extreme hurricane season. On September 5, Kaiser Permanente gave a donation to the American Red Cross for hurricane relief efforts.