BAUXITE company Jamalco has provided $4.6 million to refurbish the dental unit at the Raymonds Health Centre, which serves the community of Hayes and surrounding districts in Clarendon.

The funds were handed over to the Southern Regional Health Authority (SRHA) at a recent function.

Work to be undertaken includes the renovation of old cupboards and fixtures, restoration of sterilisation/Sleuce sink and plumbing upgrades.

A new dental chair as well as other necessary equipment and supplies will also be provided. The refurbished facility is expected to be fully operational by the end of July to accommodate students/dental clients preparing for back-to-school in September.

Jamalco manager of corporate services and government affairs Leo Lambert said that his company has an enviable track record in promoting health and wellness in collaboration with the SRHA adding that Jamalco absorbed the cost of some medical personnel for many years, but was forced to suspend its support with the onset of the recession in the global alumina industry.

“I am pleased that we have been able to rekindle the partnership and do so in a way that is going to be significant,” said Lambert.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer Antonio Melo added that as a company, Jamalco values its communities and the company will continue to do everything in its power to contribute to their development.

Clarendon parish manager for the SRHA Joseph Grant in expressing gratitude noted that the restoration of the dental unit will go a far way in reaching not only the adults but also youngsters in surrounding communities.

“We are most appreciative of what you are doing for us and I want to commend you for your outreach as you seek to enhance health care in the parish.”

Medical officer of health for Clarendon Dr Kimberly Scarlett-Campbell commended Jamalco for its support of community development. She said as a public health Practitioner within the parish, her role includes the supervision of dental care. “The assistance that we are getting from you will go a long way in meeting the needs of the community in terms of dental care and oral health promotion. We do appreciate this collaboration and we look forward to working with you to empower the communities to take better care of their health,” she said.

Some 8,000 persons are served by the Raymonds Health Centre, which offers curative, dental, child health and community health services. The facility operates five days per week.