Maternal Care And Relief Supplies Provided To Pregnant And Lactating Mothers

More than 60 pregnant women and new mothers received support on Friday, (November 21), as the Ministry of Health and Wellness rolled out a new maternal health initiative to assist families affected by Hurricane Melissa.

State Minister in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Hon. Krystal Lee, led the intervention held at the Black River Health Centre in St. Elizabeth.

She explained that the Ministry conducted two major activities on the day in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and other organizations.

“We gave out approximately 60 odd packages, but we prepared for 70. There are things in the care packages that will help them in after birth situation and also basic items, hygienic items, disinfectant, bleach, water and so forth,” Ms. Lee informed.

She stated that the other activity involved a maternal health clinic, where health professionals conducted engagement sessions to teach mothers about best practices for maintaining healthy pregnancies.

Moreover, the session equipped mothers with information on mental wellbeing and the importance of consistent antenatal checkups, especially during stressful periods following natural disasters.

“So, we’re pushing this and they are so far very appreciative of this intervention,” Ms. Lee noted.

The event formed part of the Ministry’s efforts to address the vulnerabilities of mothers during the recovery process.

The State Minister indicated that the outreach is beginning with the parishes most severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa but will extend across the entire island.

Ms. Lee said the next stops are in Savanna-la-Mar in Westmoreland on Monday, November 24, and Albert Town in Trelawny on Tuesday, November 25.

Additional visits are being planned for St. James, Hanover and other parishes as part of the drive to ensure mothers can access care, maintain regular clinic visits and safely manage their health.

“I would like to thank UNICEF for their ongoing contribution towards relief after the impact of hurricane Melissa. UNICEF had brought in two boxes of this emergency kit, which is equipped with syringes, blood pressure machines and infant scales. They also have stethoscopes and everything that is needed pretty much for an emergency situation for our health centres,” Ms. Lee said.

Meanwhile, for many mothers, the assistance arrived at a crucial time. Colleoni Drummond of Black River, who is seven months pregnant, said she received a care package, baby items and dental services.

She stated that after losing her roof and several household items during the hurricane, the support was essential for mothers trying to rebuild.

Another expecting mother, Latoya Miller-South of Carisbrooke, echoed similar sentiments of gratitude.

“I just want to take the timeout to say thank you all for all the donation and contributions that the ministry has put out to us mother. We truly appreciate it due to the passing of Hurricane Melisssa,” she stated.