International Medical Assistance Team

On January 12, 2010 at 1653hr local time, the nation of Haiti was struck by a catastrophic 7.0 earthquake. In the days immediately following, this unprecedented disaster, the International Medical Assistance Team was formed and deployed into the epicenter. Where they were extremely effective, quickly establishing contact with the UN, the local government and law enforcement, the US and Canadian Military, and coordinated with the Canadian Medical Assistance Teams and other arriving medical resources. Ultimately establishing a partnership with the Canadian Medical Assistance Teams for projects in Haiti as well as future disaster responses.

When the nation of Chile was struck soon after, by a Magnitude 8.8 earthquake near Concepcion, on February 27th 2010, the International Medical Assistance Team and the Canadian Medical Assistance Teams deployed a joint rapid assessment team into the area. IMAT administration liaised with Chilean diplomats and military, made shipping arrangements, reserved helicopters and placed the volunteers and resources meant for Chile, in Haiti.

Since then we have processed hundreds of volunteers and have maintained a perpetual state of deployment in Haiti. Where we have cared for tens of thousands of people in desperate need and contributed/distributed thousands of pounds of medical supplies and pharmaceuticals as well as provided administrative and logistical support to other organizations. Transitioning from disaster response to disaster relief and ultimately to a sustainable humanitarian effort.

Through this experience we have come to realize that a sustainable humanitarian effort in Haiti and humanitarian efforts around the world will help us to maintain a high state of readiness for international disaster response. Creating new humanitarian projects internationally is an endeavour that strays to far from our primary mission of international disaster response. Therefore, we have set about establishing Memorandums Of Understanding (MOU's), with existing Non Government Organizations (NGO's), who have projects already in place or under development. Providing well supported volunteer opportunities for our credentialed volunteers.

If you are unable to volunteer, please consider making a charitable contribution, to the International Medical Assistance Team. Donations are tax deductible and will benefit the International Medical Assistance Team. Furthering their humanitarian work around the world and helping to maintain a high state of readiness for international disaster response. IMAT currently functions as a 501(c)3 under a fiscal sponsorship agreement with the Fire 1 Foundation. We are a 100% volunteer organization. Your donation will touch someone in a very direct way.