Medical supplies to assist with preventing, mitigating impact of COVID-19 at Jamaica’s penal facilities  

The United States Embassy in Kingston, through the US Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC), has donated much-needed medical supplies and equipment to Jamaica’s Department of Correctional Services.

The donation has been identified by the embassy as part of the United States Government’s ongoing commitment to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. The medical supplies are aimed at assisting with preventing and mitigating the impact of COVID-19 at Jamaica’s penal facilities.  

The items, valued at J$4.5 million, were officially handed over by the embassy’s chargé d’affaires, John McIntyre, to Senator Matthew Samuda, minister without portfolio in the Ministry of National Security. The handover event took place June 29 on the grounds of the Department of Correctional Services.

CDC’s Caribbean Office responding to calls for assistance

Since the onset of COVID-19 in the region, the CDC’s Caribbean Office has responded to requests for assistance to address and mitigate the impact of COVID-19. This request was filtered through the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).

The Department of Correctional Services officially requested several medical and sanitation supplies to assist with COVID-19 efforts within their institution. The donated supplies include single-use face masks, non-contact thermometers, vital signs monitors, nebulising kits, surface and hand sanitisers along with other personal protective equipment.

Speaking at the event, McIntyre said: “Today’s handover is symbolic of the US government’s unwavering commitment to support Jamaica’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

He also applauded the combined efforts, asserting that “this donation supplements the J$700 million the Embassy has so far contributed to Jamaica’s efforts in controlling the pandemic.” 

Other government representatives at the official handover included Courtney Williams, permanent secretary in the Ministry of National Security, and Dr Donna-Michelle Royer Powe, director of medical services in the Department of Correctional Services.