Founded in 1948, Direct Relief is a California-based nonprofit organization that provides humanitarian medical aid in all 50 states and more than 70 countries, with a stated mission to improve the health and lives of people affected by poverty or emergency situations. Direct Relief medical assistance programs equip health professionals working in resource-poor communities to better meet the challenges of diagnosing, treating, and caring for people without regard to politics, religion, gender, race, or ability to pay. Among its distinctions, Direct Relief has top charity ratings, including four-star and "top-notch" ratings from Charity Navigator, a 100% fundraising efficiency rating from Forbes magazine, and was recognized by Fast Company as one of the Top 10 Most Innovative Nonprofits in the World.Direct Relief's strong partnerships allow it to respond quickly and efficiently in times of emergency. This year, Direct Relief has been busy sending emergency medical aid and medical supplies to health facilities in flood-affected communities in Louisiana West Virginia , and Texas , and facilities in California in connection with seasonal wildfires . Internationally, Direct Relief is supporting partner organizations providing medical care in response to the ongoing Syrian Refugee Crisis , and in communities struggling with the dangers of the Zika Virus and the Yellow Fever outbreaks. For more information about Direct Relief's work visit www.directrelief.org