The Public Health Unit within the Ministry of Health and Social Development has received a donation of $10,000 dollars to aid in its COVID-19 response.

The monetary donation was given by the CIBC First Caribbean International Bank (FCIB) on April 29 and was accepted by Medical Officer, Dr. Ronald Georges, National Epidemiologist Ms. Harmonie Massiah and Chief Nursing Officer, Mrs. Jacinth Hannibal.

Dr. Ronald Georges said, “I am very happy for the kind donation by the FCIB and would like to thank Mr. Jervis and the bank on behalf of the Ministry of Health and the Government of the Virgin Islands. The computer equipment will greatly enhance the functioning and efficiency of the unit as it continues to focus on the Government's response to COVID-19."

CIBC’s Country Manager Mr. Amory Jervis stated that after seeking information from the Ministry of Health and Social Development on the areas that would benefit most from the funds; they met with Dr. Ronald Georges who provided a list of equipment that would help assist the Public Health Unit in the administration of the tasks related to the COVID-19 response.

Mr. Jervis said, “Understanding the importance of the role of the Public Health Unit in executing the COVID-19 protocols as decree by the Ministry of Health and Social Development. It gives great satisfaction to facilitate the acquisition of advanced and mobile computer equipment for the use of the surveillance unit in its health education and contact tracing activity in the BVI.”       

Mr. Jervis added that as a long standing corporate member of the community, CIBC First Caribbean will continue to monitor and respond to the evolving financial product and service needs of its customers and support the national efforts on the road to recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition to accepting the donation, the health officials held a panel discussion with bank staff to answer queries on COVID-19 and the vaccination programme.

Persons or organisations who are interested in learning more about the COVID-19 response or aiding in the COVID-19 response can email ministryofhealth@gov.vg