KINGSTON, Jamaica — Direct Relief has announced a US$3 million grant to Jamaica as part of its ongoing commitment to bolstering resilience in the Caribbean region.

The announcement was made Tuesday during a press conference hosted by the National Health Fund (NHF) at its Pharmaceutical Distribution Facility.

This contribution, which will support the installation of a large Solar Energy System at the facility, comes as part of the organisation’s renewal of its ongoing partnership with the island nation towards strengthening the healthcare systems and infrastructure against natural disasters and other emergencies.

A Memorandum of Understanding was also signed to continue the flow of medical aid to the nation’s health system.

In praising the partnership with Direct Relief, Everton Anderson, NHF’s chief operating officer said, “Past assistance given, as well as forthcoming aid, are testaments to the benefits good partnership can bring to an organisation and to a country. Not only have we been greatly helped, but we are also thoroughly impressed by your humanitarian efforts worldwide.”

Jamaica, like many other nations in the Caribbean, faces unique challenges in maintaining healthcare access particularly in the wake of natural disasters such as hurricanes.

Direct Relief’s grant seeks to address these challenges by supporting initiatives that enhance emergency preparedness, expand access to essential medical supplies and equipment, and fortify healthcare infrastructure.

“Direct Relief is deeply privileged to support the country of Jamaica and local health providers, who are incredibly committed to high quality care for their patients and their communities,” said Chief Operating Officer of Direct Relief, Dr Byron Scott.

“With the start of the hurricane season weeks away, Direct Relief is committed to strengthening the health system and health services, including power resilience as part of disaster preparedness,” he added.

Over the two-day visit to Jamaica, Direct Relief staff met with the Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Christopher Tufton, Juliet Holness, who has led previous Jamaican delegations to overseas conferences with Direct Relief, and Anderson, along with other NHF representatives. The group toured the NHF’s newly refurbished warehouse, Drug Serv Greater Portmore, and visited local community centres.