Chad

Despite severe insecurity, humanitarian agencies continue to provide the majority of health care in the eastern region of Chad partially due to the pressure on health services as a result of the large influx of Sudanese refugees from Darfur. AmeriCares supports the health system in northeastern Chad through a partnership with the International Rescue Committee. Since May 2004, AmeriCares has delivered seven shipments of medicine, supplies and equipment to Eastern Chad in response to the ongoing complex humanitarian emergency. In total, more than 100,000 pounds of relief supplies have been delivered to this area, including: water purification treatments; hospital equipment ranging from exam tables to lab equipment and an ultrasound machine; rapid test kits for malaria; basic antibiotics and medicines; first aid supplies and vitamin supplements; and baby blankets and educational supplies.

AmeriCares donations have been used to treat sick people in the Oure Cassoni Refugee Camp near to the border of Sudan. In addition, AmeriCares has donated the equipment needed to reopen the local District Hospital in the town of Bahai. This hospital provides secondary care for the local population as well as refugees, given that the nearest facility of its kind is 4 hours away in the dry season when roads are passable. The hospital is open 24 hours per day and operates at a 22-bed capacity.