The United States Government has so far gifted provisions of US$12 million towards Jamaica’s national coronavirus (COVID-19) response since the onset of the pandemic.

Over 1,000 residents of vulnerable communities have benefited from the provisions, which include vouchers to acquire basic items such as food and personal-care products. Acting Jamaica Country Representative for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Alex Gainer said the allocations were earmarked for non-health COVID-19 assistance to the residents.

USAID, which is one of the key entities has provided the lion’s share of US$7.5 million of the US$12 million with another US$2 million coming from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Caribbean Regional Office.

Speaking at a media round-table briefing hosted by the US Embassy at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston, Gainer said the funds were in addition to vaccines being provided, which have been channelled to other key areas.

Areas of USAID’s assistance

USAID also assisted with the establishment and equipping of the COVID-19 Emergency Operations Centre, providing protective equipment for approximately 1,000 healthcare workers and delivering critical supplies, including 25 intensive care unit beds, among other provisions.

The USAID acting country representative said his agency also provided vulnerable youth from these communities with about 2,000 tablets and laptops “so that they could continue [their education digitally in the absence of face-to-face [learning].”

The round table was used to outline engagements being spearheaded by stakeholder entities based at the US Embassy in Kingston.

Additionally, Gainer said the USAID also contributed to the development of a risk communication programme, designed to ensure Jamaicans have accurate information about COVID-19 vaccines and how to remain healthy during the pandemic.

“We are also going to be moving further, as the vaccine rollout continues, to support the Government’s efforts to make sure that there is [credible, accurate] information [regarding] access and logistical support for vaccines in Jamaica,” Gainer indicated.

Dr Varough Deyde from the CDC Caribbean Regional Office, who also addressed the round table session pointed out that the CDC’s provision was used to procure ambulances and other vehicles for EOC and strengthen data systems. In addition, he said CDC staff provided COVID-19 contact tracing and case management, and infection prevention and control support.