PORT MARIA, St Mary; Aug 10, 2026
Friends of Port Maria combined celebration and service recently, as they held their annual fundraising dinner and community health fair in the St Mary capital.
The event featured free health checks and wellness education. Major highlights were the recognition of two long-standing members for their service and commitment to the organization, and a donation of over US$2,000 from the Beckford family.
(Gregory Scott and Paul Williams stand with their certificates, for 30 years of service)
The donation was presented at their fundraising dinner, which was held at the Cabarita Restaurant.
Cardina Beckford, who made the presentation on behalf of the Beckford family, said that the donation was made in memory of their mother, Mavis Gordon-Beckford, who was a past student of the Port Maria Primary School. The family recognised and lauded the Friends for the work that they have been doing in the Port Maria community.
(Executive member Dr Dawn Silveria attends to a community member who was accessing medical care provided by the Friends.)
“This is our way of honouring her legacy and giving back to Port Maria,” she said.
The organization also used the occasion to pay tribute to two of its stalwarts. Paul Williams and Gregory Scott, who were recognized for 30 years of dedicated service to Friends of Port Maria.
(Founder Lorna Fairweather)
Founded by Lorna Fairweather, Friends of Port Maria has for decades been at the forefront of health, education and social welfare in the parish. From medical outreaches to scholarships, the organization continues to build on the foundation laid by its founder.
“This work is with a heart for the people, because of members like Paul (Williams) and Gregory (Scott) and supporters like the Beckford family that make this work continue,” Fairweather told the North Coast Times.
Accepting the donation, the organization said the funds would go towards expanding outreach programmes and medical support for residents in Port Maria and surroundings.
Friends of Port Maria reaffirmed their commitment to serving St Mary and honouring the legacy of service that defines the organization.
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