Jackie Paling introduced three Clubs who presented on their projects:
SI San Fernando – Free Health Outreach Clinic
This projects aim was to bring health care access to a rural part of South Trinidad, to create awareness of complications of Diabetes and Hypertension and their management. Candidates were screened for blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol levels – they then had a consultation with a Doctor. Patients left the event with the knowledge of their BP, blood glucose levels and if follow up was required, they were advised where to access help. They were more empowered to make healthy meal choices for controlling blood glucose level and on the importance of exercise in management of diabetes and hypertension.
SI Mauritius – Flamboyant Education Centre
Flamboyant Education Centre was set up in 2011 to provide Early Childhood Care and Pre Schooling to 60 children aged 2-5 in a highly deprived area. The objective of the project was also to allow mothers of the children, mostly single mothers, to be freed from childcare so they could embrace paid employment for economic empowerment. A kindergarten and a pre primary school were built and the project also provided life skills training to mothers of the children, literacy course and vocational training to enable them to integrate the world of work and sustain the education of their children.
“I could not send my child to school before because her stomach was empty and I could not afford a school uniform. Now I send her my 2 girls of 2 and 4 to Flamboyant Education Centre with peace of mind knowing that they will be fed and educated. Besides because they are away at school, I can leave home to work. Now I work as a maid in the nearby town and bring dinner back home.” Christel
SI Hamilton – Fairtrade
SI Hamilton aimed to raise awareness of Fairtrade issues. Members held a Fairtrade Awareness Raising Day in Regent Shopping Centre, Hamilton by setting up an Information stand; all, leaflets, posters, products on display had been obtained from FTF, SFTF, and supporting businesses. More than 200 leaflets were given to shoppers; 30 Fairtrade balloons and many stickers were given to children, several of whom said that they had been involved in Fairtrade activities at school. Fairtrade sweets were available.