ROSES VALLEY, St. Elizabeth — For three days in late August, the quiet rural district of Roses Valley became the center of care, compassion, and community upliftment. Unity Fellowship Jamaica Ministries (UFJM) hosted its 9th annual health fair and back-to-school programme, transforming Roses Valley Primary School into a hub where residents accessed healthcare, social services, and educational support free of charge.
Comprehensive Services for Families
Between August 21 and 23, villagers lined up to receive medical screenings ranging from blood pressure and blood sugar checks to eye exams and HIV/STI testing. While adults sought health services, children were not left behind: they collected school supplies, had their hair styled or cut, and prepared to step into the new academic year with renewed confidence.
UFJM’s partnership with government bodies such as the Registrar General’s Department, Tax Administration Jamaica, and the Ministry of Labour and Social Security made it possible for residents to access official services without traveling to distant towns. Private sponsors, including Guardian Group, also added to the mix, ensuring that families left with both information and tangible resources.
Human Stories of Hope
Among the moments that stood out was the participation of a 93-year-old resident who underwent an eye screening, a powerful symbol of the programme’s reach across generations. Another highlight came from the return of former Roses Valley Primary student Jhaneil Powell. Now a nursing student at the University of the West Indies, Powell not only assisted with health checks but also trained local shopkeepers to use blood pressure monitors. Fifteen machines were donated to small businesses, embedding healthcare access directly into everyday community life.
The importance of early detection was underscored dramatically when one participant, screened outside of registration hours, was discovered to have dangerously high blood sugar levels. Quick intervention by the medical team led to his urgent transfer to Mandeville Regional Hospital, likely preventing a medical crisis.
Commitment to Rural Empowerment
Reverend Nevin Powell and Reverend Clarence Edwards, who spearheaded the initiative, praised the dedication of volunteers, healthcare workers, and sponsors. They reaffirmed UFJM’s mission: to bridge gaps in healthcare and education for underserved communities.
The health fair was more than an annual event — it was a reminder that in Roses Valley, faith and fellowship are not just preached, but practiced through meaningful action.
