Mission provides US$2.5m medical supplies, services to underserved J'cans
Published:Tuesday | July 10, 2018 | 12:00 AMDerrick Scott/Contributor
Washington, DC:
The New Jersey-based Help Jamaica Medical Mission (HJMM) has provided medical supplies, equipment and health services at a value of US$2.5 million to underserved Jamaicans over the past eight years.
According to the president of HJMM, Dr Robert Clarke, their medical team has provided medical assistance to over 50,000 Jamaicans with eyeglasses and medication, as well as performed surgeries.
Dr Clarke was giving an overview of the mission's performance at its annual Black and White Elegant Boat Ride aboard the 'Cornucopia Majesty' in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, on June 30.
"We have been saving lives, making people see again and become healthier because of our yearly medical mission to Jamaica," he said.
Dr Clarke pointed out that the mission has been providing free quality healthcare services to those in dire need of these services and the mission has served thousands of Jamaicans over the years with its team of doctors, nurses and medical practitioners who make the trip each year to deliver their services free of cost.
Dr Clarke, who is also co-founder of the organisation, told the over 600 passengers that the medical team treats persons with eye disease, heart problems, diabetes, hyper-tension and other illnesses.
Free of cost
"Your attendance and support of our annual cruise help to make our visit to Jamaica to provide these health services free of cost," he said.
He stated that in addition to the cruise, several other fundraisers are held. These include raffles, an all-you-can-eat picnic and the annual black-tie affair, which will be held at the Hanover Manor on November 10.
Dr Clarke announced that the medical mission will stage its ninth health mission to Jamaica from September 5-16, visiting the parishes of Clarendon, Hanover, Westmoreland as well as three sites in Kingston and St Catherine.
The organisation was formed eight years ago when Drs Richard Constable, Rudolph Willis and Robert Clarke came together to provide healthcare services to needy Jamaicans across the country.