The United States navy vessel, USS Hawes, has docked in the Ocho Rios port to enable its staff and crew to get some much-needed rest and relaxation. But they haven't come empty-handed.

Commanding Officer Kristin Jacobsen and her crew brought two pallets of medical and hygienic supplies that they donated to the St Ann's Bay Hospital.

"This is part of Project Hand Clasp, which is a cooperation between the US Navy and several corporations. They donate everything, in this case, medical and hygiene," Jacobsen told The Gleaner shortly after handing over the supplies.

"We have everything, from Maxi pads, baby powder, Band-Aid, antiseptic, dental-care items, Q-tips and other items," he said.

The donation was accepted by director of the North East Regional Health Authority, Suzette Morris, and senior medical officer at the St Ann's Bay Hospital, Dr Horace Betton.

"We are very appreciative," Betton said. "We will be distributing these not just in the hospital system but (directly) to our patients, a lot of them maternity and paediatric patients, they will be the beneficiaries. We trust this partnership will go on for a long time."

Good use

Added Jacobsen: "It's our first time here and we are very glad we could help. The items were donated by several corporations and all they ask is that we donate to people who will make good use of them."

The crew also spent two hours Tuesday morning repainting and repairing the Pineapple Basic School in Ocho Rios.

While here, the crew has been visiting several Ocho Rios attractions, including Dunn's River Falls.