ROSES VALLEY, St. Elizabeth – Unity Fellowship Jamaica Ministries (UFJM), a religious social justice organisation, staged its 9th annual community health fair and back-to-school programme at Roses Valley Primary School from August 21 to 23.

The three-day outreach offered a range of free health services, including blood pressure and blood sugar c hecks; eye testing; and HIV/STI screenings. Children received back-to-school supplies, while boys were given free haircuts and girls enjoyed professional hairstyling in preparation for the new academic year which begins on Monday.

Government agencies such as the Registrar General’s Department, Tax Administration Jamaica, and the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (National Insurance Scheme), along with private partners including Guardian Group, were also on hand to provide services and information.

One of the fair’s highlights was the participation of a 93-year-old resident who received eye-screening services. Another touching moment came when former Roses Valley Primary student Jhaneil Powell returned as a volunteer. Powell, now pursuing a nursing degree at the University of the West Indies, Mona, assisted with health checks and later trained shopkeepers on how to use blood pressure machines. Fifteen machines were distributed to local businesses, making blood pressure monitoring more accessible in the community.

The fair also underscored the importance of early detection. In one case, a man who arrived after registration had closed and insisted on being screened. Tests revealed critically high blood sugar levels, prompting the medical team to immediately refer him to Mandeville Regional Hospital for emergency care.

Organisers of the fair, Reverend Nevin Powell and Reverend Clarence Edwards thanked volunteers, health professionals, and sponsors for their support, reaffirming UFJM’s commitment to improving healthcare and educational access in rural communities.