US Donates Medical Supplies to Aid Jamaica’s Post-Hurricane Recovery

Kingston, Jamaica – In a significant show of support, the United States government has donated over US$14,000 worth of medical equipment and supplies to Jamaica. This generous contribution arrived aboard the USNS Burlington and was officially handed over at Kingston Wharves on Wednesday, July 10.

The donation includes 12 Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines, 25 nebulizers, two hospital beds, 500 syringes, 20 urine containers, 20 shoe covers, six packs of surgical training supplies, and one pallet of hygiene supplies. These critical items are expected to significantly bolster Jamaica’s healthcare capacity, especially in the wake of Hurricane Beryl’s devastation.

Director of Emergency, Disaster Management and Special Services at the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Dr. Nicole Dawkins-Wright, expressed profound gratitude for the donation. “The support from the United States underscores the importance of international partnerships in public health. The CPAP machines, in particular, will be instrumental in supporting patients with their breathing needs,” she stated.

US Ambassador to Jamaica, Nick Perry, who was present at the handover ceremony, highlighted the broader scope of American aid to Jamaica following the hurricane. “In addition to these supplies, Jamaica has also received US$2.5 million in humanitarian assistance. This aid will help Jamaicans repair their homes, address water and sanitation needs, support logistical operations, and provide essential relief to those in need,” Ambassador Perry noted.

The USNS Burlington’s visit to Jamaica is part of the Continuing Promise 2024 mission, an initiative by the US Naval Forces Southern Command aimed at fostering goodwill, establishing new partnerships, and strengthening existing ties in the region. This mission, now in its 14th iteration, has been a cornerstone of US humanitarian efforts in the Caribbean and Latin America.

During their stay in Jamaica, US Navy and Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) personnel will engage in various collaborative activities. These include joint training sessions, medical care engagements, and construction projects across Kingston. A multi-day humanitarian assistance and disaster response exercise is also planned to further enhance the island’s disaster readiness.

Mission Commander, Lieutenant Commander Zachary Smith, emphasized the significance of Jamaica in the Continuing Promise mission. “This is the third time in the last ten years that we have visited Jamaica, making it one of the leading stops for Continuing Promise. We look forward to working hand-in-hand with the Jamaica Defence Force to provide multiple days of side-by-side medical care to both military and civilian patients at three separate medical sites,” he said.

This collaboration between the US and Jamaica not only underscores the enduring bond between the two nations but also highlights the critical importance of international cooperation in times of need. The ongoing efforts by the USNS Burlington and its crew demonstrate a committed partnership dedicated to the health and well-being of the Jamaican people.

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