What health services were provided at the Back-to-School Health Fair?

Introduction

The Veronica Campbell Brown Foundation, in collaboration with The Ministry of Health and Wellness, successfully launched its first Back-to-School Health Fair at the Vere Technical High School in Clarendon. This event provided over 440 essential health services to more than 200 participants, including students and community members.

Purpose of the Event

Veronica Campbell Brown, founder and multiple-time Olympic champion, stated, “Our first annual back to school Health Fair and Wellness Event was to provide essential health services to high school students as part of the requirement to assess their physical health prior to returning to school. Our aim is to ease the financial burden for parents and provide educational insight about healthy lifestyles.”

Health Services Offered

Attendees received vital screening services such as blood pressure and blood sugar checks, cholesterol and BMI assessments, vision testing, vaccinations, and ear examinations. This ensured comprehensive health evaluations for all participants on August 17.

Community Response

The overwhelming turnout underscored the community’s need for accessible health resources and reflected a heightened interest in personal wellness. The event recorded 115 medicals, 95 immunizations, 150 Know Your Numbers, 50 cholesterol tests, and 42 HIV tests.

Educational Sessions

Participants engaged in impactful sessions led by medical professionals and experts, who provided valuable insights on physical and mental health, as well as personal well-being. Attendees also enjoyed engaging giveaways, including backpacks, books, pens, pencils, and tumblers.

Sponsorship and Support

The event was supported by notable individuals and entities such as Pearnel Charles Jr, Adidas, Juicy Patties, Consolidated Bakery Limited (Miss Birdie), VMBS, Grace Kennedy, and New Forest Energy. This exemplified the foundation’s mission to provide students with essential educational resources.

Looking Ahead

Campbell Brown expressed, “We are already planning for the second staging of the Back-to-School Health Fair and Wellness event in 2025. We look forward to expanding the scope of the event and continuing to make a positive impact on the community.”

Join the Movement

Campbell Brown invited others to join the movement, stating, “We invite everyone, whether you are a student, parent, community member, or organization—to join us in our mission to empower and support the youth through education, health, and mentorship. Your involvement will help us continue to create meaningful change in the lives of those who need it most. Together, we can build a healthier and brighter future for our community.”