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KINGSTON, Jamaica—More than 250 students benefited from the Free Town Foundation’s annual Back-to-School Giveaway and Health Fair held on Friday, August 21, at the Miracle Tabernacle Free Town Church of God of Prophecy in Clarendon.
The event not only benefited students, but also provided adults with an opportunity to “know their numbers” and access medical professionals and other health services.
The foundation’s partnership with the Clarendon Health Department has been ongoing for several years and, according to the foundation’s secretary Carol Officer, is one that is highly appreciated.
Among the services offered at the fair were medical check-ups, dental examinations and teeth cleaning, as well as health screenings and ‘number’ checks.
“It would not be the same. Their contribution is invaluable, and so many persons, not just from the Free Town community but from as far away as Kingston, are truly grateful,” she shared.
This year, there was an extra-special treat for women attending the health fair, as they were given the opportunity to have free Pap smears, courtesy of the National Health Fund, in partnership with the Jamaica Cancer Society.
One grateful participant, Angella Reid Sinclair, said that being able to access the service at her church, without having to go out of her way to get it done, was a major benefit.
“I am so thankful. Blessings to those who made all this possible,” she shared.
Keynote speaker Gareth Warren from the Clarendon Youth Innovation Centre made students aware of the resources available to those who partner with the centre.
Among the benefits available to students, he explained, are résumé writing, job interview preparation, and verified programmes for travel and work.
He also noted that students can receive assistance with schoolwork, mentorship, and general support for whatever issues they may be facing.
Officer, in closing her presentation on behalf of the foundation, used the opportunity to thank the partners who helped to ensure the success of the event.
While expressing appreciation to everyone who contributed, she singled out the major support provided by the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) Foundation and the Sean Paul Foundation. She also thanked Excelerate Energy and Pencils4kids for their support, even as she made a call for additional support from corporate Jamaica, friends, and other organisations.
“The Free Town Foundation cannot do this alone. We need individuals, we need churches, we need businesses, we need foundations, we need corporate partners. And we need people who are willing to say, ‘if there is a need, we want to be part of the solution’,” she said.
Looking ahead, she said the foundation’s vision is to establish a community food bank, as well as develop a consistent monthly soup kitchen, so that food can be taken directly into the streets to reach people experiencing hunger and homelessness.
“We want to build partnerships that allow the Free Town Foundation to serve our community not just occasionally, but consistently and sustainably. Later this year, our flagship Holiday Hope programme will bring another opportunity to give back, with plans to distribute more than 200 care packages and provide children with a day of celebration, encouragement and gifts,” she said.
