On Saturday, November 16, 2024, the Rotary Club of New Kingston hosted its 30th Annual Health and Wellness Fair at Constant Spring Primary and Infant School. Benefiting 214 students, their parents, and residents of surrounding communities, the fair reinforced the club’s longstanding commitment to improving lives through accessible healthcare and education.
Volunteers registering participants of the Annual Health FairAttendees received critical services, including guidance and counselling, dental, optical and medical checkups, heart screenings, and blood pressure and cholesterol tests. Agencies such as the Registrar General’s Department, National Health Fund, a Heart Foundation of Jamaica, and the Mental Health Unit of the Ministry of Health provided additional support. The event also featured community theatre by Children’s First Bashy Bus Edutainment Team, which used community theatre arts to promote peace building and conflict management among parents and to teach children how to love and respect others in order to mitigate violence.
Beneficiaries taking advantage of the National Health Fund servicesA Legacy of Service
Since its inception in 1994, the Health Fair has grown to become a flagship initiative for the Rotary Club of New Kingston. Originally launched in 1996 as a medical and dental drive under the leadership of Past President Kent LaCroix, the fair has consistently expanded its scope. By 1998, it included optical screening through a partnership with the Lions Club of Kingston and nutritional guidance from professional dieticians.
While the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the event in 2020, the club pivoted in 2021 to offer COVID-19 vaccinations to over 120 residents, demonstrating flexibility in meeting urgent community needs.
Ministry of Health and Wellness' Jamaica Moves Initiative in full effect with the students of the Constant Spring Primary and Infant SchoolThis Year’s Fair: Collaboration and Impact
Now a major undertaking, the fair delivered approximately $2 million in services this year, supported by long-term partners like the UWI School of Dentistry, which celebrated 10 years as a full participant in the project. Rotaractors and students from Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts added vibrancy and energy to the event.
Services extended beyond basic healthcare, addressing broader wellness needs with mental health awareness sessions, HIV and diabetes screenings, and nutritional education for parents. Pharmaceutical companies also provided essential medications for prescriptions issued on-site.
The Child Guidance Clinic providing services at the Annual Health FairLooking Ahead
Reflecting on the initiative’s impact, Rotary Club President DorrettRCampbell said, “For three decades, this fair has removed barriers to health and learning for thousands in the Constant Spring and Cassava Piece areas. We are proud of this legacy and remain committed to expanding our reach and deepening our impact.”
As the Rotary Club of New Kingston looks to the future, it continues to embody its motto of "Service Above Self," ensuring that health and wellness remain accessible to all.
Some of the Volunteers, Rotarians, Rotractors and Interactors paused for a quick group photo