US donates more than $14,000 in medical supplies – Jamaica Information Services

Jamaica received more than $14,000 worth of medical equipment and supplies donated by the United States government.

The items arrived aboard the USS Burlington and were handed over at Kingston Dockyard on Wednesday (July 10).

These included 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 a pallet of hygiene products.

Dr. Nicole Dawkins-Wright, director of emergencies, disaster management and special services at the Department of Health and Wellness, said the assistance, which comes in the wake of Hurricane Beryl, highlights the importance of partnerships in public health.

She expressed gratitude for the items, especially the CPAP machine, which helps support patients’ breathing.

Nick Perry, the U.S. ambassador to Jamaica, who handed over the above supplies, said Jamaica also received $2.5 million worth of humanitarian aid after the hurricane.

“This assistance will help the Jamaican people repair their homes, meet water and sanitation needs, support logistical operations and provide basic relief to those in need,” he noted.

The USS Burlington is currently stationed in Jamaica as part of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command’s “Sustaining Promise 2024” mission.

This is the delegation’s 14th visit to the region, aimed at promoting goodwill, establishing new partnerships and strengthening existing relations.

After Hurricane Beryl, the USS Burlington added emergency supplies to assist with the island’s recovery.

While in Jamaica, U.S. Navy and Jamaica Defense Force (JDF) personnel will collaborate to share knowledge, conduct joint training, and participate in health care efforts and construction projects in Kingston.

In addition, they will conduct a multi-day humanitarian assistance and disaster response exercise.

Mission Commander Lt. Zachary Smith said this is the mission’s third visit to Jamaica in the past 10 years, making the island one of the main stops for the Continued Promise program.

“We look forward to working together during our time at the Jamaica Defence Force to provide concurrent medical care to military and civilian patients for several consecutive days at three different medical sites,” he said.