The Jamaican Association of Bermuda presented a $2,000 donation towards the $40 million fundraising goal set by Bermuda’s Charitable Trust for the new hospital.

The proceeds were raised when some 350 residents boarded the Bermudian for the association’s 51st annual celebrations of Jamaica’s independence on August 10.

According to Association President Marlene Flynn-Carty the reasoning behind the donation is twofold. The plan is to support the cause in Bermuda and assist with renovations to the Kingston Public Hospital in Jamaica as well.

“We’ve been putting aside funds garnered from our events so that at some point we will build up a kitty and go there to do some work.

“And we thought while raising funds for the hospital in Jamaica we should raise funds for the new hospital in Bermuda as well,” said Ms Flynn-Carty. “Here’s a hospital where we live and the first place that we will attend to in case of illness and we thought why not assist locally as well.”

The association hopes to present the funds to the hospital in Kingston early next spring.

She also plans to make a site visit in January while members spearhead what they are trying to do for the hospital in Jamaica.

The association has also thrown out a challenge to other charitable organisations to follow suit by donating funds to Bermuda’s Charitable Trust.

“We’ve been the first to do so and we would like to see others follow suit because it’s important to give back to the community,” she said.

Association Vice President Corville Hylton said: “It’s a privilege to be a part of this history both locally and in Jamaica. I think other groups know the Bermuda Charitable Trust needs money and they have almost reached their goal.

“If only others will follow suit then I think they will achieve their goal and soon.”

Accepting the donation on behalf of the Bermuda Hospitals Board was Community Development Officer Laura Lyons.

With the current total raised to date at $29 million, she was thankful for the financial boost.

“I think it’s fantastic that the Jamaican Association has chosen two charities that are close to their hearts — one in their home in Bermuda and one in their island home of Jamaica as well.

“Generally, it’s so wonderful to have the support of all of Bermuda’s residents because our hospital supports Bermudians, non-Bermudians, visitors, anyone who comes to the island our hospital serves them,” she said.

“Our total fundraising goal is $40 million and we’re working our way there. And the idea from our community standpoint which the Jamaican Association has contributed to is that with many people helping we will get there.

Ms Flynn-Carty concluded: “In Jamaica we have a saying — ‘one, one cocoa fill basket’. And so we’re saying you may not be able to raise the whole $40 million but every dollar counts.

“A hospital is very important in any country and so we must be seen to be assisting; it’s a community effort.”