LAMB : A Brief History, 1955 – 2007
Mid 1950s - Vision
The vision for LAMB began when Mr. John Ottesen, a missionary of the American Santal Mission in Dinajpur, felt an urgent need for medical work for the hundreds of thousands who had no access to proper health care. The vision was developed further through a prayer group in Los Angeles.1969-Mid 1970s – Land
The land where LAMB exists was purchased between 1969 and 1972.The early vision included a hospital providing high quality tertiary, secondary and primary health services to everyone, especially the poor. Preventive health initiatives were introduced in the community before the actual hospital was established. From the earliest days, training was envisaged as a key activity.
1981 – LAMB Registered
LAMB officially began with our registration with the Ministry of Social Services. The first programs were a small clinic at the LAMB site and mobile clinics in several villages. The Community Health division expanded to include sanitation programs, health teaching in villages, promotion of kitchen gardens and other preventive health programs.1983 – Hospital Opened
The 50-bed hospital opened in October 1983.1980-1995 – Community Activity Growth
The LAMB Community program grew, including Preventive Health; Mobile Clinic; Nutrition Center; Functional Education; Income Generation and Training Programs.The Tuberculosis program began in the late 1980’s.
The relationship with PLAN International began in 1994. It initially involved the sub-contracting of health services to LAMB for mobile clinics and health teaching.A Rehabilitation facility and program were initiated in 1994..
1996 – First DFID grant
Services for the community improved dramatically in quantity and quality following receipt of the first DFID grant.1997 – PLAN relationship formalised
The relationship with PLAN International broadened to a partnership. A very considerable part of LAMB activity continues to be funded by PLAN programs.1998 – Hospital to 75 Beds
Through assistance from PLAN International, DFID and World Mission Prayer League (USA), LAMB increased the size of the hospital to 75 beds.1996-7 – LAMB an NGO
In 1996-7 LAMB transformed its governance structure from that of a traditional mission hospital to an NGO accountable to its own International Board. This reflected the changing external environment.2006 – New Training Centre
With financial support from the Japanese Government in particular, a large new training centre – already very fully utilized – was constructed and opened.2007 – LAMB a 150-Bed Hospital
Through steady growth, LAMB is now a 150 bed hospital wards for Maternity, Paediatrics, and Male and Female General Wards. It has upgraded supporting facilities