THE Veronica Campbell Brown (VCB) Foundation returns to Vere Technical High School today for the third staging of its Back-to-School Health and Wellness Fair, being held in partnership with the Ministry of Health & Wellness and supported by Sagicor Foundation Jamaica, VM Group, and Adidas.

The fair began in 2024 and returned for a second staging in 2025 at Campbell Brown’s alma mater Vere Technical, drawing large turnouts from students, parents and residents of the surrounding communities.

Both editions offered free screenings for body mass index, cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar, vision testing, and ear examination, plus talks on nutrition, immunisation, and oral health delivered by licensed medical professionals.

In reaffirming his ministry’s commitment to this initiative, Minister of Health and Wellness Dr Christopher Tufton said supporting the VCB Foundation Back-to-School Health and Wellness Fair is an investment in the future of Jamaica’s children and communities.

“We recognise that good health is fundamental to educational success, and by partnering with initiatives like this we are helping to ensure that students return to school healthy, confident and ready to learn. This event also provides families with access to valuable health services, information, and resources that can have a lasting impact beyond the first day of school. We are proud to support an initiative that promotes wellness, strengthens communities, and creates opportunities for every child to thrive,” said Tufton.

Meanwhile, Sagicor’s Vice-President of Communications, Social Media and Corporate Social Responsibility Nicole Campbell Robinson, said: “At Sagicor Foundation Jamaica we know that when young people are healthy, supported, and equipped with the resources they need, they are better positioned to thrive — both in and out of the classroom.

“That’s why we’re pleased to support the VCB Foundation’s Health and Wellness Fair, which brings together essential health services, wellness education, and back-to-school resources for students and their families. Initiatives like these make a real difference in our communities, and we’re proud to partner with an organisation that shares our commitment to helping young people start the school year with confidence and the best-possible foundation for success.”

This year’s staging, which will run from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, expands the roster of corporate partners, joining the VCB Foundation to widen access to screenings, health education, family resources, gear from Adidas, other giveaways, and entertainment, ahead of the new school year.

“Every student deserves the opportunity to begin the school year feeling great, confident, and ready to succeed. Through our annual health and wellness fair we are proud to bring together partners who share our commitment to investing in the well-being of our children and strengthening our communities,” said Campbell Brown, co-founder and chair of the VCB Foundation.