Al-Hamza Center receiving much needed renovations
May 04
By Sgt. Rebekah Malone, 225th Eng. Bde. PAO, MND-B
BAGHDAD - The al-Hamza Center for the Disabled in the Mansour district of Baghdad is receiving much needed repairs after sectarian violence caused the facility considerable damage in 2007.
On April 30, project manager 1st Lt. Mandy Breyman of Republic, Ohio, 46th Engineer Combat Battalion (Heavy), 225th Engineer Brigade, said the center was still operating, but was not helping as many patients as possible because people assumed the center was shut down due to exterior appearance.
"The grounds were covered by mass vegetation and a majority of the windows and doors were broken out," she said. "[We are] also focused on the overall plumbing and electrical systems to increase the facilities ability to operate as an efficient and effective center to treat its patients."
The Task Force Longknife contract is an initiative funded by 5th Battalion, 4th Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division to help the facility treat more patients.
Dentist Dr. Hussein Jabir has worked in the clinic for two years even though the building is in disarray. He said it was not always in this condition and was once a good facility.
"This is very good. We appreciate all you're doing," Jabir said. "This will help the people that use this facility."
Breyman said she enjoys the opportunity to make a difference for the people of Iraq.
"It's extremely self rewarding to know that I have the ability to assist in improving the local populace's quality of living through projects such as school, medical and recreational facilities refurbishments as well as installing solar lighting," she continued.
Once renovations are complete, the Ministry of Health hopes to provide additional supplies for the facility's use.
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