Fourteen impactful projects are set to be executed across several communities in Jamaica on Diaspora Day of Service this Thursday, June 20.
These projects, encompassing medical missions, community development, and educational initiatives, will mark the conclusion of the 10th Jamaica Biennial Diaspora Conference, which commenced on Sunday, June 16.
The day provides an opportunity for diaspora members to engage in pre-arranged projects throughout the island, fostering a sense of community and support.
“We are very pleased with the responses, so far,” said Conference Chair and President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the VM Group, Courtney Campbell. “People from the diaspora have organized their own projects because they are committed to contributing to the well-being of their fellow Jamaicans. It is amazing how committed these Jamaicans who live overseas are to serving local projects,” he added.
Highlighted projects
Among the highlighted projects, approximately 200 community members are expected to benefit from a medical mission at the Barrett Town Community Centre in St James. Mr. Campbell noted that this initiative is being executed by the Jamaica Diaspora Taskforce Action Network, involving members from 15 countries.
The project collaborates with the Ministry of Health and Wellness under the #KnowYourNumbers campaign, which aims to address the growing issue of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and premature deaths in Jamaica.
“So, Jamaican doctors and nurses are returning to the island to participate at the Barrett Town Community Centre, and they will be doing health screenings, testing of individuals, and health education,” Campbell said. The screenings will cover diabetes, cholesterol, prostate and cervical cancer, HIV, and syphilis.
Additionally, a project titled ‘Build a house in one day’ will see the construction of a home for a family of four in St. James. This effort will be led by Jamaica’s Consul General to Miami, Oliver Mair, in collaboration with Food For the Poor, an organization dedicated to providing social housing for needy Jamaicans.
In another notable initiative, the Honorary Consul of Jamaica in Montreal, Canada, will lead a renovation project at Black River High School in St. Elizabeth. “The team will be renovating the girls’ bathroom at the high school. The goal is to create a better environment for students,” Campbell said.
The Diaspora Day of Service underscores the dedication of overseas Jamaicans to their homeland, showcasing their unwavering commitment to the betterment of local communities through these diverse and meaningful projects.
More news from the Jamaican diaspora conference:
- Jamaica’s police chief calls for diaspora engagement in community initiatives
- Record numbers for this year’s Jamaica diaspora conference
- Jamaican Diaspora Conference to stimulate increased trade and commerce
