Basseterre, St. Kitts (December 01, 2006): The people of St. Kitts and Nevis will continue to receive high quality medical emergency care thanks to a donation from one of the Federation's private enterprises.
On Friday, during a brief handing over ceremony, Mr. Charles Jong Sr., owner and proprietor of St. Kitts Industrial Supplies, donated 10 cylinders of oxygen to the Joseph N. France (JNF) General Hospital. ~~Adz:Right~~
He said that in speaking to Mr. Erickson France of the JNF Central Medical Supplies he was informed that there was a need for oxygen. Mr. Jong said that he contacted his company's manager Mr. Glenville Williams and asked him to reserve 10 cylinders of oxygen for the hospital.
Minister of Health Honourable Rupert Herbert accepted on behalf of the people of St. Kitts. He graciously thanked Mr. Jong and said that he was certain the donation would be useful particularly as preparations were made for Cricket World Cup 2007.
~~Adz:Left~~ The Minister also mentioned that healthcare is very costly, noting that this year close to a quarter of a million dollars was spent purchasing oxygen from St. Kitts Industrial Supplies. He said that he was happy that Mr. Jong saw it fitting to extend the hand of generosity.
Minister Herbert further noted that government pays approximately 99 percent of the day to day expenses of the hospital and community health centers. This money, he said comes directly from residents chiefly through taxes, fees and the like. Minister Herbert took the opportunity to encourage other individuals and businesses to also contribute to the health of residents of St. Kitts and Nevis.
