AFTER donating a record $4.9 million to the Linstead Public Hospital from the Tru-Juice 5K Run/Walk in 2024, Trade Winds Citrus shattered the record this year with the handover of $8.2 million to the facility.

“This is truly a proud moment for Tru-Juice. We are overjoyed to be part of something that keeps growing each year. I am especially proud of our team and the wider community of supporters who make this possible. With God’s help, we believe we can surpass this amount again next year,” said Peter McConnell, managing director of Trade Winds Citrus Limited, at a cheque handover ceremony hosted at the hospital on Tuesday.

Calling the moment a proud one for the Tru-Juice team, McConnell praised the commitment of participants, sponsors, and community members who made the achievement possible.

Since the inception of the Tru-Juice 5K Run/Walk 10 years ago, proceeds have been dedicated to improving health care in St Catherine, with the Linstead Public Hospital serving as beneficiary for the past six years.

For the hospital, the donation is a life-changing investment in the delivery of care to thousands of patients.

Camile Wallen-Panton, CEO of the hospital, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the sustained partnership:

“The Tru-Juice 5K has grown into something much bigger than a race, drawing support from across Jamaica and even overseas. This $8.2 million will directly improve the services we provide and make a real difference in our patients’ lives. We are deeply grateful for this partnership and look forward to even greater achievements together next year,” Wallen-Panton said.

Over the past decade, funds raised from the 5K run/walk have gone toward vital medical equipment and hospital upgrades, significantly strengthening the capacity of Linstead Public Hospital to serve not just St Catherine, but residents of neighbouring parishes as well.