The grounds of St. Jude’s Primary School was transformed into a health and wellness hub during a community health fair held on March 23, 2024. The 180 Degree Foundation, in partnership with St. Jude’s Primary, brought on board key organisations – the University of the West Indies (UWI) Faculty of Medical Sciences Interprofessional Outreach Committee, and the Lions Club of St. Andrew Central – to provide the much-needed services. Over 200 parents and community members received free healthcare services, underscoring the impact of partnerships in promoting community health.
Services Offered
The fair offered a range of services including general medical check-ups, dental services, vision tests, pharmacy services and physiotherapy services. Health education sessions covered key topics like nutrition, mental health, and chronic disease management.
One popular service was the vision screening by the Lions Club, where residents received prescriptions and free reading glasses. The dental service was oversubscribed, with those who were able to access, receiving cleanings, fillings and even extractions. Persons were also able to fill their prescriptions on the spot, thanks to the UWI Pharmacy team.
Impact on the Community
The health fair significantly impacted the community by offering crucial healthcare services, particularly to those with limited access. Many residents, like Racquel McDonald Williams, were extremely grateful for the range of services provided. She gave the fair a 10/10 assessment, having received attention from the vision, medical, physiotherapy and pharmacy teams. She also expressed her sincere thanks to the school Principal for accommodating the fair on the school grounds. Several attendees were referred to local clinics for further care after discovering potential health risks, such as high blood pressure.
Beyond the medical benefits, the event fostered a sense of community and collaboration. The UWI medical and pharmacy students also gained valuable practical experience through serving and interacting with the residents.
Looking Forward
The success of the event has inspired discussions about making the health fair an annual tradition. Principal Ainsworth expressed optimism for continued collaboration with the key partners, 180 Degree Foundation, UWI and the Lions Club, hoping to offer even more comprehensive care in years to come.
As the day ended, the smiles on the faces of attendees and volunteers alike highlighted the fair’s success, demonstrating the positive impact of community initiatives like this, that respond to the persons real and genuine needs.
