A number of stalwarts in Steer Town, St Ann, were honoured recently for their years of dedicated service to the community.

The occasion was a special treat for the elderly jointly staged by Sandals Dunn’s River, Sandals Royal Plantation, and the Social Development Commission (SDC).

The honourees were presented with commemorative plaques donated by the two Sandals resorts, in recognition of their invaluable contributions to community life.

Receiving special recognition were: Rose Brown, for contribution to health-care delivery; Beryl Dobson and Patricia Bucknor, for outstanding leadership in education; Perl Tulloch and Lancelot Davis, for outstanding contribution to theology; Peggy Williams, for exceptional environmental stewardship; Angella Harding and Lelieth Foster for dedicated service to community betterment; and Patrick Watkis and Norville Whyte for dedicated support for community sports programmes.

The awards formed part of a wider initiative that saw more than 100 senior citizens from the area treated to a day of pampering and care at Steer Town Primary School.

The seniors enjoyed a range of complimentary services, including blood pressure and blood sugar checks by volunteer health professionals and massages, grooming sessions, and spa treatments provided by team members from the participating resorts. They were also feted with a sumptuous meal courtesy of the resorts.

“For the third year in a row this initiative has showcased the exceptional collaborative spirit of Sandals resorts in this region and the SDC,” said Ian Spencer, regional public relations manager at Sandals.

“It not only brought joy to the elderly members of the community but also underscored the importance of fostering intergenerational connections and honouring the wisdom of the past,” added Spencer.

Pearl James, a returning participant from Steer Town, expressed appreciation for the gesture.

“People don’t often care for us old people, so this effort was really appreciated and showed true community spirit. I came the last two years, and this year has been the best,” declared James.

SDC parish manager for St Ann, Hillary McBayne, emphasised the organisation’s commitment to honouring the elderly.

“Our dedication to our elders goes beyond obligation; it’s a passion within us. We want to thank our partners for their community spirit in making this event a memorable one,” said McBayne as she lauded Sandals resorts for providing the incentives for the honourees.”

General manager of Sandals Royal Plantation Omar Robinson said the initiative provided a unique opportunity to learn from the experiences of the older generation.

“Listening to our elders isn’t just being respectful — it’s an investment in our personal development and enriching our shared wisdom,” said Robinson.

Deryk Meany, general manager of Sandals Dunn’s River, echoed the sentiment.

“Our elders embody wisdom, history, and experiences that have built our society’s core. Every moment with them is a chance to celebrate their priceless contributions,” said Meany.

He added that he was proud to be a part of the venture and pledged his company’s continued commitment to the care for the elderly initiative.

In the meantime, Sandals Royal Plantation team member Simeon Johnson said participating in the treat was both fulfilling and enlightening.

“These seniors have given a lot to our community, and it’s an honour to give back. This experience highlighted how important it is to connect with different generations and how compassion can make a real difference. I have been a part of the event since its inception and will continue to do so,” Johnson said.

Nicola Lattery-Llewellyn (right), Red Lane Spa manager at Sandals Dunn’s River, presenting a plaque for exceptional environment stewardship in Steer Town, St Ann, to Peggy Williams at a recent function to fete the elderly in that community at Steer Town Basic School.

Nagaree Brown (left) from Sandals Dunn’s River delivers a labour of love as she pampers a resident of Steer Town, St Ann, during a special function staged by SDC and Sandals to honour the elderly from the community.