Partners for World Health (PWH)

Partners for World Health (PWH) is a non-profit 501(c)3 based in South Portland, Maine that is committed to reducing medical waste, improving the quality of healthcare in underserved countries, and educating our local community about global healthcare issues.

We collect medical supplies that healthcare facilities in the U.S. are required to discard and ship them to countries in need. In addition, we organize medical missions to Southeast Asia and Africa for doctors, nurses, and students. While there are other non-profit organizations that send medical supplies to or provide medical care in the developing world, PWH is proud to be the only organization in the U.S. that does both. We strive to follow-up each shipment of medical supplies and equipment with a team of medical personnel. Lastly, we are committed to educating our community members about the importance of recycling and the disparities in healthcare around the world.

WHO ARE WE?

Our team is made up of an extraodrinary group of volunteers ranging in age from 11 to 94. Everyone on our staff is involved because they have a passion for the cause. Our volunteers are dedicated, curious, and committed to this endeavor wholeheartedly. We truly believe that all things are possible.

HOW DID THIS VENTURE BEGIN?

In 2007, Elizabeth McLellan, RN, MPH, began collecting discarded medical supplies in her home while she was working as a nursing supervisor at Maine Medical Center.

In 2009, she founded Partners for World Health and began shipping the supplies overseas. When she had accumualted 11,000 pounds in her home, filling the kitchen, dining room, and basement, Elizabeth realized it was time to expand. She rented a small warehouse, which we have long since outgrown. We now have a 15,000 sq. foot shipping center and a 11,000 sq. foot distribution center/office. We don't plan on slowing down anytime soon!

Homepage: Partners for World Health