American nonprofit Direct Relief announced a US$3 million grant to Jamaica on Tuesday (April 30), in a renewed effort to greater bolster energy independence and resilience in the Caribbean.

This contribution, which will support the installation of a large solar energy system at the National Health Fund’s (NHF) Pharmaceutical Distribution 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 (MOU) 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 chief executive, said, “Past assistance given, as well as forthcoming aid, are testaments to the benefits good partnership can bring to an organisation and 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 Dr. Byron Scott, chief operating officer of Direct Relief.

“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 Health Minister Dr Christopher Tufton, and House Speaker Juliet Holness who has led previous Jamaican delegations to overseas conferences with Direct Relief, as well as NHF head Anderson and other NHF representatives.

The group toured the NHF’s newly refurbished warehouse at Drug Serv Greater Portmore and visited local community centres. 

Direct Relief has a long history of providing humanitarian assistance in Jamaica and across the Caribbean region. From responding to the devastating effects of natural disasters to supporting ongoing healthcare needs, Direct Relief has worked closely with local partners, such as the NHF, to deliver vital medical aid where it is needed most and make a meaningful impact in improving health outcomes and saving lives. 

The NHF has expressed its commitment to fostering a partnership with Direct Relief that will persist for decades to come in the interest of improving healthcare for Jamaicans.