Daughter’s healing fuels movement of hope

Students in the Font Hill community and surrounding areas of St Thomas are now better prepared for the new school year, thanks to the Karing Hearts Foundation's eighth annual Health Fair and Back-to-School Treat.

Founder, Kayann Wallace, described the August 15 event, held in the community, as a success, noting that students received school bags, books, and medical checks, courtesy of various stakeholders and sponsors.

She said the initiative is rooted in a promise she made to God during a difficult period.

"This initiative was born out of my personal experience when my daughter faced a health challenge and I had to trust God for provision. After receiving help, I made a promise to give back to the community," Wallace said.

The event offered free blood pressure and sugar checks, HIV and syphilis tests, as well as counselling for children and adolescents.

"Our goal is to promote health, wellness and community development. We are grateful for our stakeholders," Wallace said, highlighting the support of the Ministry of Justice, Teen Hub, the St Thomas Health Department, InTown Medical Centre, and others.

A passionate advocate for social change, Wallace is urging Jamaicans to show more kindness in their daily interactions.

"I just want to encourage each and every one - anybody you come in contact with, ensure that you put a smile on their face. You don't have to have money to put a smile on one's face, you don't know what they are going through, and just one word can change the entire thing," she said.

Meanwhile, Wallace said that this year's treat will have a second instalment on August 24, at the Fire Baptised Holiness Church of God in Font Hill.

With the support of the Digicel Foundation, Wallace and her team will be distributing school bags to students in Font Hill and neighbouring communities. The day will also include refreshments and a guest speaker who will provide the children with vital information on staying safe and aware.

"We are committed to supporting our communities' youth and empowering them for a brighter future," Wallace said.