The Hospitals Auxiliary of Bermuda has set aside $200,000 to fund equipment for the island’s medical facilities.

The membership of HAB, one of the island’s oldest charities, approved the funds at its annual meeting.

The charity raises money through its three retail outlets, The Pink Café and the Gift Shop at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, and the Barn, a thrift store in Devonshire.

Patrick Cerra, the president of the HAB, said: “Throughout the year, HAB works with the Bermuda Hospitals Board to determine which medical equipment will best serve the needs of BHB for that period.

“Started in 1953, HAB’s aim has always been to support BHB, the island’s only acute care and mental health hospitals, with resources for clinical equipment which will improve care and treatment. Volunteers are easily recognised as adult Pink Ladies and Men, and student candy stripers.

“It’s only through the hard work and dedication of our staff and volunteers that we are able to offer financial assistance to BHB each year.

“HAB would also like to thank our customers for their patronage over the years.”

Scott Pearman, the BHB’s deputy chief executive, thanked the HAB for its support, adding: “Even during the Covid pandemic, when its outlets were not able to open and raise funds, the HAB continued its financial support.

“In fact, from 2021 to 2023, the HAB has provided BHB $850,000 in funding. We are so grateful to the organisation and to all its wonderful staff and volunteers who make this possible.

“Through its gifts, the HAB has made, and continues to make, a significant impact on the healthcare we provide to the entire island.”

Hospital ambulances, dialysis machines, CT scanners and lab equipment are examples of vital equipment made possible through HAB donations.

• Anyone interested in becoming a HAB volunteer should e-mail Nancy Oughton, HAB general manager, at nancy.oughton@bhb.bm, call 239-1525, or visit the HAB office on the first floor of the KEMH General Wing

• UPDATE: this article has been amended to correct that Scott Pearman is the deputy chief executive of the Bermuda Hospitals Board. We apologise for any inconvenience