Jamaica is calling on members of its diaspora to streamline their support for the public health sector by working through the National Healthcare Enhancement Foundation (NHEF), the government body tasked with coordinating donations and philanthropic assistance.
Executive Director Courtney Cephas made the appeal during a virtual forum hosted by Jamaica’s Consul General to Miami, Oliver Mair, emphasizing the importance of efficiency, transparency, and accountability in managing contributions.
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Cephas explained that the NHEF, an agency of the Ministry of Health and Wellness, ensures that donations are properly processed and delivered to intended beneficiaries without delays. He urged donors to engage directly with the foundation to maximize the impact of their contributions.
Highlighting the organization’s role in disaster response, Cephas pointed to its coordination efforts following Hurricane Melissa. The foundation facilitated the distribution of medical missions, field hospitals, and essential supplies, ensuring timely clearance and delivery across affected areas.
He also commended diaspora communities in the southern United States for their contributions under the Adopt-a-Clinic Programme. According to Cephas, 17 of Jamaica’s 59 adopted health centres have received support from that region, with six facilities backed directly through initiatives led by the Miami consulate.
These six centres have secured commitments of approximately $18 million, while an additional 11 facilities supported by other diaspora groups account for about $30 million. In total, Diaspora South has contributed roughly $40 million toward strengthening primary healthcare infrastructure in Jamaica.
Funds have been used to procure critical medical equipment, including blood pressure machines, scales, and autoclaves, as well as to upgrade facilities with air-conditioning, storage, and improved patient accommodations.
Cephas noted that Hurricane Melissa caused an estimated US$8.8 billion in damage, about 41% of Jamaica’s gross domestic product, with 65 of 101 health centres sustaining major to severe damage. Rebuilding efforts are now underway, with a focus on improving resilience.
Looking ahead, he outlined new avenues for diaspora involvement, including adopting heavily damaged facilities, supporting maternal and early childhood health programmes, and advancing tele-mental health services to expand care access across the island.
