Pastor Kunle Komolafe, general overseer New Eden Church of Christ International in presenting the materials to the hospital officials said that was their first time supporting the unit even though they have previously assisted SOS Children’s Village and Mile II central prisons.
“Every year by February we collect materials from our members and give them to the less privileged because as Christians we believe in helping others,” he added, saying they do not look at religion, tribe or race when rendering assistance.
“Many of us at times look at ourselves because we do not have food to eat and think that God has not done anything for us but going to places like Tanka Tanka Psychiatric Hospital you look back and thank God because there are people more educated than you but are here,” he stated.
Omar Bojang, matron for Tanka Tanka Psychiatric Hospital said Tanka Tanka is the only psychiatric unit in the country even though there are outpatient units in almost all regions of The Gambia.
Mr. Bojang added that the treatment at Tanka Tanka Psychiatric Hospital is free unless what is not available at the hospital then family members buy those medicines.
He further said that the hospital runs at a capacity of 100 beds but added that plans are underway to extend it to 150 bed capacity as well as renovate the place.
He pointed out that government cannot do everything and as such said the gesture would complement its efforts.
He further said that the food items will help them prepare different dishes for patients as well as give them clean clothes.
He highlighted that the patients’ vulnerability is one of the most abandoned in the vulnerability group and therefore thanked donors for coming to their aid.
