Advancing Global Health and Sustainability
Kits4Life is a cross-sector initiative, developed by the life sciences community, to repurpose clinical trial supplies, lab kits, and equipment to close the healthcare gap worldwide.
Our Inspiration
In September 2016, a yellow fever outbreak swept through the Democratic Republic of Congo, resulting in 1,400 reported cases and 82 deaths, primarily among children.
Although more than one million vaccine doses were available, a critical shortage of syringes halted vaccination efforts. An additional 6 million syringes were urgently needed, but they weren’t available.
By December, the epidemic claimed 350 more lives, underscoring a critical gap: lifesaving resources often exist, but fail to reach the communities that need them most.
Our Response
Life sciences leaders took the lead in shaping, developing and implementing Kits4Life, united by a vision to recover surplus medical supplies and equipment that offer life-saving assistance to those in need locally and globally for medical aid and training.
Leadership Profile
Greg Folz, Administrative Director of the Research Institute of Deaconess Clinic, was deeply affected by this crisis. As both a grandfather and a life sciences professional, he felt compelled to act.
Inspired by concerns from clinical research staff about unused lab supplies' environmental impact, Greg proposed the Kits4Life initiative. This innovative platform allows clinical trial sites to donate surplus medical items for humanitarian aid.
The concept won the SCRS Site Tank challenge, demonstrating the support of the life science community. Greg next contacted MSA to provide the framework and tools to create and manage the new program.
Demonstrating that one person's inspired vision can impact millions of lives.
Our Partners
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Research sponsors join Kits4Life and, following onboarding and a pilot phase, enable the donation of surplus medical supplies and equipment from their clinical trial sites and distribution centers to accredited MedSurplus organizations.
Clinical trial sites participate through their sponsoring research partners—creating a coordinated, system-wide approach to recovering surplus and delivering it where it’s needed most. Clinical research sites interested in participating should contact their partnered research sponsors to learn more.
Kits4Life Impact
Meet 16-year-old Anoosh, in Ghana, whose sight was restored using SOS medical donations.
Kits4Life Awards
