First gov’t buildings receive solar panels, elderly homes renovated

The Adina Donovan Home for the Elderly has been retrofitted with solar panels; making it the first government building to ever have that accessory from Alternative Energy Solutions.

Solar panels were installed to the elderly home as renovation works have been completed to both the Adina Donovan Home and the Virgin Gorda Elderly Home, which was also fitted with solar panels.

The two facilities had sustained significant damage during the 2017 hurricanes.

The Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) funded the repairs as part of a $1.3 million it donated to support health response in the territory.

Collectively, the two buildings received new roofs, interior and exteriors doors, windows, light fixtures, energy saving ceiling fans and air conditioners, fencing, cabinetry, shelving, water efficient toilets, plumbing fixtures and faucets, appliances, emergency signage, beds, furniture, medical carts and supplies, remodeling of the kitchen areas, and interior and exterior painting.

Notably, all the supplies, materials, technical skills and labour came from the experts and vendors within the territory.

Both facilities were officially handed over on May 30 and 31.

Director of the Department of Disaster Management, Sharleen DaBreo said while the facilities were officially handed over, plans are in the pipeline to make further improvements to the homes with more ‘SMART’ components such as the solar panels.

Senior Advisor and Disaster Preparedness and Response for PAHO, Dr Dana Van Alphen said in an environment that is becoming expensive to maintain and operate critical health facilities, the SMART approach ensures healthcare facilities are able to withstand the impacts of hazards and can operate efficiently.

Seniors are important

Minister for Health and Social Development, Ronnie Skelton, who delivered remarks during the handing over ceremony, underscored the significance of the seniors in society.

“The elderly in our society are very important to me … so I believe that the seniors and older people that reside in the home have made their contribution to society and it is for us who are able and competent to provide the facilities and the programmes so that they can live out the balance of the years in a dignified manner,” he said.

Roy Garraway of Quality Construction Limited also made a monetary contribution to the Adina Donovan Home for its continued upkeep.

Back in October 2017, PAHO committed to the projects which also included purchasing of new vehicles for the Environmental Health Unit, pharmaceuticals, and medical consumables specifically for hospitals, clinics and elderly homes.