Seventh-day Adventists have reinforced its longstanding commitment to national health care by officially donating 70 hospital beds, valued at approximately US$395,000 or JMD $27.7 million, to Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and Wellness, on April 10, at the Andrews Memorial Seventh-day Adventist Church in Kingston.
This second bed donation follows its 2023 gift of 40 in a collaborative effort between AdventHealth, one of the largest faith-based health systems in the United States and Andrews Memorial Hospital. Also involved are supporting partners the Good Samaritan Inn and the GSI Foundation the charitable arm of the Adventist Church in Jamaica and the coordinating body for importing the beds into the country.
Dr. Audrey Gregory, Executive Vice President and CEO of AdventHealth East Florida Division and a native of Kingston, described the gesture as an act of compassion rooted in shared values. “This is more than just the transfer of hospital equipment,” she said. “It is an expression of our faith in action, offering comfort, dignity, and healing to those who need it most.”
Dr. Gregory noted that her journey began in Jamaica, where she started her career as an emergency room nurse. “This moment is deeply personal. These beds represent care for the patients, support for the staff, and hope for families,” she added.
The beds will be distributed to public hospitals across the island, with facilities in the southeast and southern regions, including the Princess Margaret Hospital in Morant Bay, identified among the first recipients.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Mr. Errol Greene, who represented the Minister of Health, The Honourable Dr. Christopher Tufton, accepted the donation on behalf of the government. He described the contribution as timely, deeply appreciated, and aligned with the nation’s healthcare goals. “These are not ordinary beds,” Greene said. “They are instruments of recovery that will ease overcrowding, support caregivers, and improve the overall hospital experience for Jamaicans.”
Greene went on to highlight the global significance of such acts of generosity. “Health outreach exemplifies the spirit of partnership and compassion. Your support is a reminder that we are not alone in our mission to create a healthier Jamaica,” he stated.
President and CEO of Andrews Memorial Hospital, Mr. Donmayne Gyles, said the donation underscores the hospital’s mission of extending Christ’s healing ministry and aligns directly with Jamaica’s Vision 2030 goals to improve public health outcomes. “We are proud to stand in support of the government and the people of Jamaica. These beds will serve countless patients for years to come. We do this in the spirit of partnership, mission, and care — and with faith that together, we will continue to build a healthier Jamaica.”
Pastor Everett Brown, Chairman of the Board at Andrews Memorial Hospital and President of the Jamaica Union of Seventh-day Adventists, praised the partnership with AdventHealth as one that has consistently delivered meaningful results. “Healthcare is expensive,” he noted, “but with trusted partnerships, we’ve been able to serve both private and public needs with distinction.”
Following the official handover signified by the cutting of the ribbon, Professor Colette Myrie, Acting Director of the Health Services, Planning and Integration Branch at the Ministry of Health and Wellness, conducted a live demonstration of the donated bed’s features. She highlighted the adjustable height that facilitates easier patient access, the elevation functions for the head and legs to support clinical examinations, and the overall comfort enhancements that help prevent complications such as pressure ulcers. “This is a really advanced bed, and we are grateful,” she said.
Several dignitaries and partners also attended the one-hour programme. From the Ministry of Health and Wellness: Mr. Courtney Cephas, Executive Director of the National Healthcare Enhancement Foundation; Kadriedra Robinson; Karl Brown; and Jerome Morant. From AdventHealth: Mr. Owen Gregory, Senior International Heritage Liaison; and Nurse Michelle Goeb-Burkett, Chief Nursing Officer. Also present were AMH Board Members Desmond Young and Barbara Woolery; Pastor Carl Cunningham, Vice President of the East Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists; Yvonne Lawson of ASI Jamaica; Mr. Gavin Lowe, Director of the GSI Foundation Jamaica; Mr. Vermont Murray, Project Manager at the Good Samaritan Inn; Andrews Memorial Hospital’s Management Team; workers and other guests.