The Jamaica Hospitals League of Friends (JHLOF) is a registered charity formed in 1990 by a group of Jamaicans working in the UK healthcare system. They were soon joined by others from a variety of occupational background, keen to support Jamaica.
Following a feasibility study in Jamaica, gaps were identified in service provision and there were needs for medical equipment and supplies, health care support seemed an appropriate area that a charitable organisation could support. JHLOF has set out to assist the Jamaica health service to fill the gaps in service provision, helping to provide the kind of service that they desire.
Our first fundraising event occurred when five midwives dressed in party frocks stood outside a club in Central London with collection tins because the Proprietor pledged to double the amount collected. We are most grateful to our early supporters. In addition, the ongoing support from the Jamaica High Commission in London and its Community Liaison Officers has been beneficial in referring the charity to key contacts in Jamaica. Without a high street office and minimal promotional activities, the charity is supported by volunteers who strive to work for the benefit of our people and our beloved Jamaica!
JHLOF obtained charity status in 1995, and has maintained steady and incremental growth. Over the years the same dedicated committee members from its inception have continued to work for the benefit of Jamaica’s health service. It is the continued commitment and support of fellow Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica that have been the backbone and strength of the charity. Whether a donation from an individual, attendance at a fundraising event or donation from a UK health institution, year after year the support has been very encouraging. Without this loyalty and support our beneficiary hospitals would have struggled in the areas where their needs were met.
Over the years we have sent hundreds of hydraulic hospital beds, numerous orthopaedic/prosthetic appliances and other equipment and sundries to hospitals all over Jamaica. These are shipped directly to a hospital or to the Ministry of Health for distribution where the need is greatest.
For example, in recent years we have proudly delivered to the Ministry, 50 new beds and lockers following our 'beds' campaign. These were sourced at a grossly reduced price of £12,500 and donated to six hospitals across Jamaica.
In addition, JHLOF donated to the Linstead Hospital Maternity Unit a Portable Incubator Transport System to the value of £45,000. This vital piece of equipment enables sick newborn babies needing intensive care, to be transported safely to a better equipped hospital.
We have been fortunate to have the support of Santa Cruz Shipping in the early years. They introduced us to JP Shipping, a part of the Jamaica Producers Shipping Company, who has been one of our most loyal supporters over the years to ensure expeditious delivery of incubators and shipments. Our gratitude to them is immense.