Medical equipment distribution underway for typhoon survivors

Distribution of donated medical equipment is underway at the former Kanoa Hotel on Saipan, where CNMI residents impacted by Super Typhoon Sinlaku are receiving supplies from Friends of Disabled Adults and Children (FODAC).

Based in Atlanta, Georgia, FODAC delivered 44 pallets of medical equipment to the CNMI, including wheelchairs, hospital beds, walkers, crutches, oxygen concentrators, nebulizers, CPAP machines, and other medical supplies. The organization has provided more than 1,000 items valued at over $250,000 through donations from FODAC, Amazon Disaster Relief, and other supporters.

Following Super Typhoon Sinlaku, FODAC worked with the CNMI Council on Developmental Disabilities and the CNMI Assistive Technology Program to identify residents who needed help replacing damaged or lost medical equipment.

The University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Center for Living Independently, Autism Society of the CNMI, and the Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation also assisted with identifying needs and coordinating support.

Distribution is ongoing on Saipan, with deliveries to Tinian and Rota being coordinated.

Hear more from CNMI Council on Developmental Disabilities and CNMI Assistive Technology Program’s Pam Sablan, as well as FODAC president Chris Brand, from the distribution site at the former Kanoa Hotel on Thursday, July 23.