More than 200 children benefit from health fair

Last Friday, scores of residents from Tregedar Park, Lauriston, Tryall Heights, Central Village and surrounding communities flocked the Lauriston Holiness Temple for the 15th staging of the Annual Health Fair and back-to-school treat, which saw more than 200 children benefiting.

Member of Parliament for St Catherine Eastern Denise Daley said that the contribution of events such as health fairs, form a crucial part of nation-building.

"The need to afford back-to-school items can be very difficult for parents. It was with this in mind that gave birth to the annual health fair and treat, where we assist those we serve," Daley said. At the event, medical personnel conducted examinations on children getting ready for the reopening of school.

The medical teams performed extractions, cleanings and other dental procedures, as well as general medical checks, such as blood sugar testing and immunisation tests.

"We are here to give back to the community which elected us to represent them," Keisha Lewis, councillor for the Lauriston division. "We ensure that the support to education continues, as it is very important to the nation's development. Therefore, this health fair has received our constant dedication for the last 15 years."

Parents and guardians who brought children were given book vouchers.

"This is a meaningful contribution to my child's back-to-school [preparations]. The voucher plus the cheque save me about $30,000. There are five children to go to school in September, so it provides great financial relief to us," Thelma James said.

For single parent Michael Dalhouse, it was the guidance and counselling session which meant the most to him.

"I love that there were guidance counsellors here to help to prepare us for the reopening of school," Dalhouse said. "It is getting more challenging for the students, teachers and parents to manage the school environment. Therefore, any help given by way of preparation is welcome."

It was a day dedicated to the children, as there was a bounce-a-bout, slide and snacks, including snow cones, which helped persons to cope with the scorching heat.