The Health Science Club on campus is continuing its tradition of service-training abroad with January’s 2023 trip to Jamaica.
After a three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, club members are excited for the opportunity to use their skills. The club has been recognized for its efforts in the past by the Jamaican Ministry of Health, and they have a strong commitment to the community there.
Club member Alexis Mayes commented on how excited she is about the trip.
“I am participating in this trip to Jamaica because I am a Health Science Pre-PA student and I want to be able to bring my knowledge of health and our donated resources to a country with people who are not as fortunate as I am. Lock Haven University has traveled to Jamaica to “The Harmon House” in the past and according to those who have (gone) before, the community awaits our arrival and is always excited for us to come and bring our resources.”
The club’s work will be focused on supporting dental health at the house, particularly for children. They will be beginning an initiative for preschool children, as teachers at the house believe teaching children as young as possible will encourage life-long hygiene.
Elaborating on some of the ways the club will be involved, Mayes said, “We will go into schools and give donations of toothbrushes and toothpaste as well as putting fluoride on the student’s teeth. We also will be doing health clinics and participating with the volunteers at ‘The Harmon House’ with their projects as well. We are bringing many donated items such as school supplies, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and vitamins to leave with the community.”
Mayes also mentioned what she hoped to learn from the upcoming trip.
“I hope to learn more about culture and diversity in health care. I also am excited to see how this trip impacts my experience as a student in health care.”
The club looks forward to continuing their relationship with the Harmon House, and hopes that they will continue to receive support for their outreach.
