International Relief Teams works to alleviate the suffering caused by poverty and disaster -- from the forgotten corners of the world to right here at home. IRT helps families survive and recover after a disaster by providing timely and effective assistance. IRT also provides a hopeful future for underserved communities through programs that improve their health and wellbeing. During disasters, IRT deploys medical and reconstruction teams, provides supplies, and finances the restoration of infrastructure. IRT builds healthy communities through medical training programs; medical missions to low-income countries, including surgical and eyeglass teams; shipments of medicines to rural hospitals and clinics; and health, nutrition and education support for vulnerable populations. Since 1988, IRT has provided $6.5 million in volunteer services and $343 million in medicines and supplies to families in need in 68 countries worldwide.