50+ VOLUNTEERS FROM US, JAMAICA GIVE CARE TO STUDENTS AND ADULTS
GAYLE, St Mary; May 21, 2026
More than 500 students from Western St Mary received free dental services at the Gayle Civic Centre, courtesy of Great Shape in partnership with the Sandals Foundation and the Ministry of Health.
The dental care programme ran from May 11 to 15.
(MP for Western St Mary Robert Montague points students to one of their own as a good example of a willing student)
Over 53 volunteers from the United States and Jamaica served students from Gayle Primary, Newstead Primary, Jeffery Town Primary, Jackson Primary, and Tacky High schools, along with residents from the communities. The students received free cleanings, sealants and fluoride treatments.
Each day, approximately 95 students were transported to the temporary clinic, where they also received toothbrushes, toothpaste, and dental floss to encourage proper oral-care habits.
Minister without Portfolio Responsibility for Land Titling and Settlements and Member of Parliament for St. Mary Western, Robert Montague, welcomed the initiative and commended Sandals for its continued contribution to community development through employment and support for farmers.
(Volunteer dental health professionals interact with patients)
For parent Carlene Robinson, the initiative was a welcome relief. She, her son, and her grandson received treatment. “I am appreciative of this, and I thank the Sandals Foundation and Great Shape,” Ms Robinson said.
Senior teacher at Newstead Primary School, Tamara Pink, lauded the initiative, pointing out that many students would have had to seek dental care at the Ocho Rios or Exchange clinics, which are usually busy and overcrowded.
Jamaican volunteer dentist Dr. Elvoy Bennett has been volunteering with Great Shape for three years. “This kind of initiative is good for rural communities as persons often neglect their dental care.” Dr Bennett said.
Great Shape is a United States non-profit founded in 2007. . Its Jamaican arm, Great Shape Inc. launched the Sealant Dental project in Hanover in 2010, evolving from the 1000 Smiles dental project. The programme provides free dental care, education, and prevention services to underserved communities islandwide.
“Oral health determines mental well-being,” said Heidi Clarke, Executive Director of the Sandals Foundation.
