The ballroom at The Grand in Totowa, NJ, will come alive on Nov. 1 when the East Orange, NJ-based Caribbean Medical Mission (CMM) hosts its annual Black-Tie Gala, celebrating 28 years of service.
CMM Jamaican-born President Dr. Donna Hutton-Cassie told Caribbean Life on Monday, Oct. 13, that the event seeks to raise funds for CMM’s ongoing work in assisting underserved communities in the Caribbean and Africa.
She said proceeds will aid CMM’s mission to Belize next year and help purchase medical supplies and medications.
Previously, Dr. Hutton-Cassie said the proceeds helped purchase dialysis machines and EKG units for underserved communities in the Caribbean and Africa.
“The gala is our biggest fundraiser of the year,” she said. “Every ticket sold helps us bring healthcare and hope to people who otherwise wouldn’t have access to a doctor, a nurse, or even basic medicine.”
Dr. Hutton-Cassie stressed that, while healthcare providers volunteer their time, financial support is critical to continuing future missions.
“The doctors and nurses pay their own airfare and lodging,” she said. “But we still need community help to cover transportation, medications, and supplies. This is why the gala is so important.”
Dr. Hutton-Cassie said Dr. Montrae Thomas, a pediatrician who has served the North Jersey community for more than 40 years, will be honored at this year’s gala, along with Michael Wattkis, a journalist and educator, who has dedicated decades of service to Caribbean and American nationals in New Jersey.
“Recognizing two leaders, Dr. Thomas and Mr. Mike Wattkis from our community, is important,” said Dr. Hutton-Cassie, adding that “Dr. Thomas’s lifelong commitment to children’s health and Wattkis’s dedication to community empowerment embody the very values that drive our mission.”
She thanked supporters and urged the public to attend or contribute to the noble cause.
“We’re inviting everyone, whether you’re from the Caribbean, Africa, or right here in the US, to join us in making a difference,” Dr. Hutton-Cassie said. “Every dollar helps us deliver medicine, education, and hope.”
For more information, visit www.clmonj.org.
