The Rotary Club of Dominica has expanded its efforts to promote healthier lifestyles among children with the installation of water fountains at Roseau Primary School and Trafalgar Primary School.
According to a press release from the Club, the water fountains were officially handed over during ceremonies held on June 15, 2026, as part of its ongoing Childhood Obesity Programme.
The initiative is aimed at encouraging students to drink more water and reduce their consumption of sugary beverages. The Club said the project supports wider national efforts to combat childhood obesity and improve the health and well-being of young people.
During the handover ceremonies, Nutritionist Kerissa Shillingford of the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services spoke to students about the importance of staying hydrated and making healthy food choices. The press release said she emphasized the role that proper nutrition and regular water consumption play in reducing the risk of childhood obesity and other non-communicable diseases.
Students were encouraged to choose water over sugary drinks and to adopt healthy habits from an early age.
To complement the installation of the fountains, the Club reports that reusable water bottles were distributed to students. The bottles are intended to make it easier for children to access drinking water throughout the school day by allowing them to refill and stay hydrated while on campus.
The Rotary Club’s President, Dr. Jermaine Jewel Jean-Pierre, thanked school administrators, teachers, students and the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services for their partnership and support in advancing the Childhood Obesity Programme.
As per the release, Dr. Jean-Pierre also acknowledged the role of the Club’s Annual Carnival Sunday Souse and Punch Fundraiser in making the project possible. Funds generated from the event were used to finance the initiative. The Club also expressed gratitude to the sponsors, patrons, and supporters whose contributions helped bring the project to fruition.
The press release noted that the Childhood Obesity Programme remains the Rotary Club of Dominica’s flagship health initiative. Through education, awareness campaigns and practical interventions, the programme seeks to encourage better nutrition, increased physical activity and healthier lifestyles among children.
The Rotary Club of Dominica said it remains committed to implementing community projects that create meaningful and lasting benefits for young people across the island while supporting efforts to improve public health.
