Kiwanis Club of West St Andrew brings cheer to Laura’s Basic School
by Keisha Hill/Senior Gleaner Writer · The GleanerIn the true spirit of giving and community upliftment, the Kiwanis Club of West St Andrew hosted a Christmas Health and Wellness Fair at Laura’s Basic School, providing much-needed health services, education, and festive cheer to children and families in the surrounding community.
The initiative was sponsored by the High Commission of India in Kingston and supported through a key partnership with the Early Childhood Commission (ECC), reinforcing a shared commitment to early childhood development, preventive healthcare, and community well-being.
At the heart of every Kiwanis initiative is a commitment to serving the children of the world. According to Sherrell Wilson, president elect, the fair provided families, particularly those with limited access to healthcare, with essential services such as basic medical checks, vision and dental screenings, nutrition education, and mental wellness support.
By bringing these services directly into schools and communities, Kiwanis Clubs she said helps to remove barriers related to cost, transportation, and awareness.
“These initiatives focus strongly on early detection and prevention, helping to reduce the long-term burden of disease. Through screenings and educational sessions, parents learn how to recognise warning signs, adopt healthier lifestyles, and seek timely medical care,” Wilson said.
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“This proactive approach not only improves individual well-being but also reduces strain on the healthcare system,” she added.
The Early Childhood Commission played a critical role by offering guidance on child development standards, nutrition, and parenting practices. ECC representatives engaged directly with parents and caregivers, answering questions and sharing resources aligned with national early childhood goals.
Early Intervention
Many Kiwanis Health and Wellness Fairs focus on early childhood settings, where timely intervention has the greatest impact. By partnering with schools, early childhood institutions, and national agencies, Kiwanis Clubs help ensure that children start life with a strong health foundation.
“Healthy children are better learners, more confident, and more likely to reach their full potential. One of the strengths of Kiwanis initiatives is collaboration. This often involve partnerships with healthcare professionals, government agencies, diplomatic missions, corporate sponsors, and community groups,” Wilson said.
“These partnerships expand resources, increase outreach, and amplify impact, while demonstrating the power of collective action,” she added.
The health and wellness fair offered a wide range of services, including basic health screenings, dental checks, nutritional guidance, parenting education, and wellness information tailored to early childhood development. Children also received health kits, educational materials, and Christmas treats, creating a joyful yet purposeful atmosphere.
Maurice Livingston, President of the Kiwanis Club of West St Andrew highlighted the importance of starting health education early.
“When we invest in the health and well-being of our children, we are investing in Jamaica’s future. This fair is about prevention, education, and showing families that support is available. Good health and education form the foundation of strong communities, and this partnership reflects our shared values,” he said.
Parents attending the fair welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely, helpful, and reassuring, especially during the busy Christmas season.
Renae Griffiths, teacher at the George Headley Primary School, said as a parent, it gave her peace of mind knowing her child was checked and that she could ask questions about her health without worrying about cost.
“The information we received today will help us take better care of our children at home. I am truly thankful to the Kiwanis Club and everyone who made this possible,” Griffiths said.
Several parents also noted that having services available at their child’s school made access easier and less stressful.