The heightened awareness about cancer driven by the annual “CIBC Walk for the Cure” initiative, has resulted in more women being encouraged to get tested. That is the word from the Medical Coordinator of the Barbados Cancer Society’s Breast Screening Programme. Dr. Shirley Jhagroo. The event was on Sunday with our reporter Ackeem Clinkett attending and filling this report.

Family conflict is the number one cause of homelessness in Barbados. According to the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs Jehu Wiltshire, a situational analysis conducted by the University of the West Indies shows that 60 per cent of homeless people are in that state as a result of family conflict. Mr Wiltshire says it appears that since the COVID-19 pandemic, families have been less tolerant and patient when dealing with internal conflict. He was speaking at the Calvary Moravian Church where members of the recently established National Task Force on Homelessness Committee joined the congregation for worship. Mr Wiltshire adds a survey undertaken on December 23, 2023, shows there are 239 homeless people, 139 of whom are on the streets while the others are in various shelters.

The Barbados Workers’ Union worshipped with the Calvary Moravian Church congregation on Sunday, as part of its 83rd anniversary celebration. General Secretary Toni Moore used the occasion to remind people of the critical work the Union continues to do. She also raised the concern that too many people in society appear to be all about themselves. Ms Moore says more people need to understand that if they are good, God wants them to ensure others are in the same position. Delivering the sermon, Reverend Dr Adrian Smith also spoke about a high level of selfishness in society.