Health group shows love to homeless on Valentine’s Day

While many persons showed their loved ones that they cared through candy and flowers on Valentine’s Day, a health group opted to bring some love to the less fortunate persons in St Vincent and the Grenadines, in a different way.{{more}}

The Health Education for Life Through Adolescence (HELTA) group took to the streets of Kingstown last Friday, February 14, to deliver meals to the homeless people living on the streets of Kingstown.

In an interview, president of HELTA Denicia Cyrus said the group wanted to do something special on the day of love.

“We just wanted to do it different. People on Valentine’s Day share their love with their spouse and families and HELTA just decided…why not share with the homeless because they also need the love,” she said.

With this goal in mind, the group members braved the midday heat and walked through the capital, carrying disposable boxes with lunches and glasses of juice. As they distributed the food, they reminded the homeless persons that “HELTA loves you”.

Shanika John, the coordinator of the group, stated that she was extremely touched when the group came up with the idea.

John explained that the group was formed approximately five years ago, through the health promotion unit at the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment.

She also noted that a number of community groups have been formed with the same purpose, to educate youths on healthy lifestyles, in the Owia area and the Grenadines.

“I’m encouraging Vincentians and young people in particular, if you want something to do and if you want to spend your time positively, HELTA is really a group for you,” the coordinator said. “Members of the private sector can also make pledges in the group to help to see the group develop and see young people doing something positive.”

Persons interested in being a part of HELTA can acquire more information at the Ministry of Health.