PATH Programs
PATH takes an entrepreneurial approach to developing and delivering high-impact, low-cost solutions, from lifesaving vaccines and devices to collaborative programs with communities. We develop solutions hand in hand with those who will use them and then work with a spectrum of partners—community groups, other nongovernmental organizations, governments, the private sector, and United Nations agencies—to achieve widespread and lasting impact on people in low-resource countries.
For example, we developed and introduced a vaccine for meningitis A—a devastating form of meningitis that sweeps across Africa in epidemic waves—by forming an unprecedented collaboration with the World Health Organization, African leaders, the private sector, and government agencies. In its first month of use, the new vaccine was administered to nearly 20 million people in three African countries, protecting them from death and disability as well as the crippling economic impact of the disease.
In addition to vaccine development and delivery, our work addresses other urgent health needs, including:
- Solutions for emerging and epidemic diseases like HIV/AIDS, influenza, malaria, and tuberculosis.
- Safer childbirth and healthier mothers and children.
- Health technologies designed for low-resource settings.
- Better information, choices, and technologies for reproductive health, especially for vulnerable, low-income women.
PATH’s work has been recognized by Fast Company magazine, the Tech Museum of Innovation, and the Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Award. Charity Navigator, the largest independent evaluator of nonprofits in the Unites States, has awarded PATH four stars—the highest rating—eight years in a row for sound management practices.
Recent Successes and Current Challenges
PATH’s determination to create appropriate and affordable health solutions combined with our expertise in moving health products from development to widespread use have led to landmark successes. Some recent accomplishments include:
- Accelerating the development of the world’s first malaria vaccine. We worked with seven African countries to launch one of the largest vaccine clinical trials on the continent. By increasing the use of currently available malaria prevention tools, we’ve already helped to save the lives of nearly 750,000 African children.
- HIV testing and counseling for nearly 1.5 million Kenyans in our project area. They also learned how to prevent HIV infection and how to access treatment. We are proud to be part of the effort that has helped Kenya reduce HIV prevalence by more than half.
- Giving hundreds of thousands of poor children in India and Brazil a boost from PATH’s Ultra Rice® fortification technology, which produces micronutrient-enriched grains that are mixed with local rice in school lunch programs. With stronger immune systems and more energy, these kids are better prepared to learn and to grow.
PATH’s work in more than 70 countries has benefitted 74.5 million people. With support from our donors, we’re working toward a world where health is within reach for everyone.
Our ability to be innovative and responsive to global health needs depends especially on support from individuals. Through the Catalyst Fund, PATH’s primary source of innovation funding, we have set many of our most effective programs in motion. In return, we provide a way for donors to have a powerful impact on the lives of people around the world.