Gambia HELP, a US based non-profit organisation, yesterday donated medical equipment including wheelchairs, crutches and over 50 boxes of medical supplies to the Royal Victoria Teaching Hospital. The organisation has been in existence for the past ten years and has been very supportive of the people of The Gambia.

Among the organisations goals is not simply to provide a gift, but to assist Gambians in their efforts to build a sustainable economy and environment.

Speaking at the handing over ceremony, held at the hospital’s boardroom, Shelby Taritus, Director of Gambia HELP, said the organisation grew from her experience when she was a health volunteer in 1980.

“Over the past ten years, Gambia HELP has been active in The Gambia where supplies and support have been provided to all regions of The country,” she said. She added that her organisation works cooperatively and transparently with the Department of Health.

According to Mrs. Tarutis, each year Gambia HELP ships a large container of donations to The Gambia from donors in the US.

“Usually it contains such items as books, school supplies, educational materials, medical supplies, computers and sewing machines,” she revealed.

Speaking on behalf of the RVTH, Mr. Baboucarr Ngum, Public Relations at the hospital, commended Gambia HELP for what he described as a generous gesture. He assured the donors that the materials will be used as required and properly taken care of.