Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and Wellness’ Adopt-a-Clinic Programme has received another major boost following the announcement by Dr. Jacqueline Watson, President of the RalRosa Foundation, that her organization will extend its adoption of the Golden Spring Health Centre in St. Andrew for another three years.
Dr. Watson made the announcement at a reception held in honor of Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson, at the foundation’s headquarters in Georgetown, Washington, D.C. She noted that the foundation’s initial three-year adoption of the Type 2 health centre would have ended in September.
Over the past three years, the foundation has invested approximately J$3 million in cash and provided medical and diagnostic equipment valued at more than J$2 million.
“Our parents would be extremely proud but not surprised by our decision to adopt the clinic, as it demonstrates the lessons they taught us during our childhood,” Dr. Watson said.
Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton, who attended the event, welcomed the announcement and praised the RalRosa Foundation for its continued commitment to the programme.
“This is a strategic programme that seeks to proactively leverage the philanthropic support of the private sector and diaspora to play a more critical role in improving the primary healthcare system,” Dr. Tufton said.
In his remarks, Ambassador Anderson commended the foundation and its members for their ongoing contributions to Jamaica’s healthcare development.
“Through the generous support of individuals like yourselves, the RalRosa Foundation has been able to make strides in improving healthcare in Jamaica. I commend the Watson family for their ceaseless work — Jacqui, Kim, Richard, and the younger generation of Watsons, thank you for the work you do,” he said.
“Every dollar we raise, every pledge you make, brings us closer to a Jamaica where quality healthcare is accessible to all. Let us rise above the challenges, extend a helping hand to those in need, and leave a legacy of compassion and care. Together, we can create a brighter future where quality healthcare and prosperity are a reality for all.”
The Golden Spring Health Centre is a Type 2 facility serving more than 86,000 registered patients. It offers services in maternal and child health, curative care, family planning, and mental health.
The facility is the 47th of 100 health centres that have been adopted since the Adopt-a-Clinic Programme began in 2017. Of the 59 clinics adopted to date, the Jamaican diaspora accounts for 37 adoptions, representing a combined commitment of J$100 million. All 14 parishes have benefited from the initiative.
