LUCEA, Hanover — This parish’s Noel Holmes Hospital has received a significant boost in medical supplies thanks to a generous donation from Help For Healthcare Professionals (HHCP), a charitable organisation based in Atlanta, Georgia.

“This is a great help to us, especially as we continue to recover from the impacts of Hurricane Melissa,” said CEO Princess Wedderburn. “The donation will significantly reduce our monthly costs on sundries and medical supplies, allowing us to better care for our patients.”

She was speaking with the Jamaica Observer Tuesday, following the unpacking of a 40-foot trailer with the items. The donation, valued at more than US$79,000 (about $12 million), includes essential medical items such as mattresses, over-bed tables, gloves, and biohazard containers. This is HHCP’s first global endeavour; however, it has made a name for itself in Georgia, where it provides support for health-care professionals and first responders.

Wedderburn highlighted the unique partnership between the hospital and the Atlanta-based group, noting their hands-on involvement in delivering and unpacking the supplies.

“They chose us [the hospital] and the people of Hanover in a season when we were greatly impacted. Their generosity goes beyond just the donation; they were present with us in stripping the container. What more could we ask for?” she said, her voice full of appreciation.

The CEO of the more-than-125-year-old, 60-bed Type C facility also shared the reaction of the hospital’s administrative staff upon learning about the donation.

“At first, it seemed almost too good to be true. But when we saw the video and realised the urgency and kindness behind this gesture, we were truly moved,” said Wedderburn.

The hospital management and staff, along with the Western Regional Health Authority (WRHA), are currently looking forward to continuing the private-public partnership with HHCP. Wedderburn said a list of needed items was sent to the organisation for further collaboration.

HHCP founder and CEO, Shelli-Ann McKenzie, confirmed receiving the list and said there is a possibility help may come sooner than expected.

“Another 40-foot container could very well be on the rise because we already have partners,” she told the Observer.

“We’re working on some other things, and we’re going to be here long term to help [the hospital] continue to rebuild. The goal is just to bring hope and to help rebuild. And it’s important that we continue these community partnerships, [and] these international partnerships,” added McKenzie.

She said HHCP relied on donations and partnerships to make the Hanover project a success. Among its partners are Northeast Georgia Health System, Boss Nurse Inc, TKR Shipping and Logistics out of Kingston, WRHA, along with the Ministry of Health and Wellness’ National Healthcare Enhancement Foundation. Donors include policymakers in Atlanta, state representatives, board members, and former students of Robert Jackson, who was once the vice-principal of Clan Carthy High School in Kingston. He is McKenzie’s father.

Originally from Hanover, she migrated to the US when she was 12 years old. She is now a registered nurse. She was inspired to start the non-profit entity after her grandmother passed away from COVID-19.

McKenzie is also the cousin of Custos of Hanover Lennox Anderson-Jackson, and he is thrilled at the work being done.

“I am particularly gratified that this effort comes from within my own family. It underscores the values we hold dear, which includes our compassion, civic duty, and commitment to community development. Leadership must extend beyond words; it must be reflected in action. Today’s undertaking exemplifies that principle,” said the custos.

For Anderson-Jackson the initiative is not simply an act of charity but a profound demonstration of “service above self”.

He noted that the provision of essential medical supplies has strengthened the hospital’s ability to deliver quality health care to residents of the parish.

“Every item donated represents care for a patient, support for a health-care worker, and hope for a family in need,” the custos stressed.

He is hoping others will be moved to engage in similar acts of kindness.

“It is my sincere hope that this gesture will inspire other individuals, families, corporate partners, and service organisations to recognise the power of collective goodwill. When we come together in unity and purpose, we uplift not only our institutions but the very spirit of Hanover itself,” said Anderson-Jackson.

Founder & CEO of Help For Healthcare Professionals (HHCP) Shelli-Ann McKenzie has strong ties to Hanover. (Photo: Anthony Lewis)

Custos for the parish of Hanover Lennox Anderson-Jackson is the cousin of Shelli-Ann McKenzie, founder & CEO of Help For Healthcare Professionals (HHCP). (Photo: Anthony Lewis)

Founder & CEO of Help For Healthcare Professionals (HHCP) Shelli-Ann McKenzie (second left) presents medical supplies to CEO of Noel Holmes Hospital Princess Wedderburn (second right) and Parish Manager for Hanover Health Services Aldwayne Beckford (right) in front of a 40-foot container filled with supplies. Looking on are HHCP advisor and McKenzie’s father Robert Jackson (left), and custos for the parish of Hanover Lennox Anderson-Jackson (centre). The custos is also McKenzie’s cousin. (Photo: Anthony Lewis)