The Sandals Foundation has donated $6 million worth of medical equipment and supplies to the Bustamante Hospital for Children to aid in the treatment of critically ill children transferred from hospitals impacted by Hurricane Melissa.
The donation — which includes a neonatal ventilator, infusion pump, blood gas analyzer, catheters, blood pressure machines, humidifiers, nebulizer and suction machines, IV poles, and exam lights — was made to strengthen the hospital’s capacity to care for young patients displaced by storm-related disruptions.
The Bustamante Hospital, Jamaica’s only specialist pediatric facility, has been receiving patients from the Savanna-la-Mar Public General Hospital, Black River Hospital, Cornwall Regional Hospital, and Falmouth Hospital, all of which were affected by the hurricane.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Michelle-Ann Dawson said the hospital has committed to accepting pediatric surgical patients, neonates, and sub-specialty cases such as cardiology and renal patients.
“It’s going to be difficult for parents because some may have to be separated temporarily from their families, but we are also looking at how we can support the parents with care packages, with information, dialogue, and psychological support,” Dr. Dawson said.
The Sandals Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Sandals Resorts International, said it acted swiftly in consultation with the Ministry of Health and Wellness to secure and deliver the life-saving equipment within 72 hours of the ministry’s request.
Executive Director Heidi Clarke described the donation as part of the foundation’s broader emergency response to strengthen Jamaica’s healthcare system in the wake of the hurricane.
“We are happy that with your donations yesterday, we were able to give the best care to a preterm neonate 26 weeks gestation weighing only 830 grams that we accepted last night,” Clarke said in a statement issued Saturday.
The equipment was sourced from local suppliers Jamaica Hospital Supplies and Medical Link. Clarke noted that the foundation’s quick action reflects its commitment to supporting communities and essential services during national emergencies.
Since Hurricane Melissa, the Ministry of Health and Wellness has worked closely with hospitals across the island to redistribute patients, staff, and resources to ensure continued access to critical care for children and other vulnerable groups.
