Free Health and Recovery Services Fair Set for St. Leonards

Residents of St. Leonards and nearby Westmoreland communities will have access to a free health and social services fair on Thursday, July 30. The one-day event will run from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at St. Leonards Primary School.

The Social Development Commission (SDC) is coordinating the initiative with the Amity Community Outreach Group as part of continued assistance for communities affected by Hurricane Melissa.

Kerean Stephenson, the SDC Parish Manager for Westmoreland, told JIS News that the hurricane's passage has left many residents facing challenges in obtaining critical healthcare and social support. She said the event will take services into the community, removing cost and travel obstacles for those who require help. Stephenson also reaffirmed the SDC's commitment to helping every resident secure the assistance necessary to rebuild and recover.

Available medical services will include rapid blood pressure and blood glucose checks, general consultations, school medical examinations and mental health counselling. All services at the fair will be offered at no charge.

Attendees may also register for government assistance programmes and complete the required screenings. These programmes include the Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH), National Insurance Scheme (NIS) and social pension benefits.

Other forms of aid will cover housing needs and farming support, while relief packages will also be distributed. Eight government agencies and two private-sector organisations will jointly provide the services, allowing residents to seek several types of assistance at one venue.

Stephenson said the fair is intended to deliver urgent support while building stronger communities, increasing public knowledge about health and encouraging enduring cooperation among service providers throughout the recovery process.