AmeriCares has entered a partnership with A Leg to Stand on Foundation (ALTSO) and volunteering orthopedic surgeons from Harvard Medical School to help children who suffered orthopedic injuries in the Jan. 2001 earthquake in Gujarat , India.

ALTSO is a nonprofit organization that helps transform the lives of children with limb disabilities by offering them the physical ability and self-esteem required to access education, work and other community opportunities. The partnership aims to improve orthopedic care in Gujarat , India through a training exchange program. The goal is to teach Indian physicians the latest techniques in spine, arm and leg care. AmeriCares will provide medicines, supplies and equipment for ALTSO's orthopedic department and cover costs for physician travel.

On January 26, 2001 Gujarat , India experienced a devastating earthquake measuring 6.9 on the Richter scale. Year to date the number of confirmed deaths has risen to 120,000. The thousands of injured suffered orthopedic, head and neck injuries, requiring rehabilitation and long term care in the future. A large number of the orthopedic injuries were to children who were often the only survivors in their families. Rehabilitation allows these children to return to school, get jobs and ultimately make a better future for themselves.

The initial response to the quake was immense but long-term aid has tapered off, especially in the area of rehabilitation for those with orthopedic injuries. Many are still in need of prosthetic and physiotherapy rehabilitation. Children are in particular need as adults are considered higher priority so they can return to work and provide for their families. Children also require lighter devices and frequent maintenance due to growth and wear and tear, too costly for most.