Another entertainer has joined the effort to assist the Bustamante Hospital for Children, putting the facility one step closer towards acquiring much-needed medical equipment.

Frederick Hibbert, popularly known as Toots, on Tuesday donated US$5,000 (J$400,000) to Jamaica's lone children's hospital. He said the contribution was the culmination of a childhood dream.

"This is something I always wanted to do, so, I took the idea to America, where I charged an extra dollar for seven years for entry to my stage shows," informed Hibbert.

Highest level

The ska and roots reggae artiste, whose career spans four decades, said he will be hosting a concert in aid of the hospital.

"The hospital is doing a good job and we can't keep it down. We have to try to uplift it to the highest level," Hibbert said.

Recently, reggae superstar Shaggy, whose real name is Orville Burrell, donated two ventilators to Bustamante Hospital. Shaggy will next month headline a concert aimed at raising US$2 million (J$160 million) for the hospital.

Hugh Anthony Porter, acting chief executive officer at the hospital, expressed gratitude for the gift.

Sourcing priority equipment

"I am feeling honoured to know that of all the places he could have chosen, he chose here. Especially, in a year when children are being abused, it's good to know that someone has stepped on board to support them," stated Porter.

He said the funds will be channelled into sourcing priority equipment for labs, the intensive care and burn units and the operating theatre.

Porter urged more persons from corporate Jamaica and civil society to donate to the facility.

Hibbert said he will be launching a foundation to help raise funds for other institutions.

"The plan is to save life, so I am hoping I will be able to give more," said Hibbert.

nadisha.hunter@gleanerjm.com.