The St Lucia Arthritis and Lupus Association (SLALA) has announced ambitious plans to intensify its advocacy and support programs for individuals with rheumatic conditions beginning in 2026. This strategic expansion will focus on three core pillars: enhanced public awareness campaigns, improved healthcare access advocacy, and strengthened educational resources for members and their families.
The commitment follows a remarkably productive year in 2025 that combined policy advocacy with direct community support. During the recent holiday season, SLALA demonstrated its compassionate approach by distributing essential food hampers to seven identified vulnerable members. This initiative was made possible through collaborative partnerships with Glace Supermarket, Bank of Saint Lucia, Bay Medical Centre, and several anonymous donors.
According to an official statement, “This initiative reflects SLALA’s ongoing mission to provide tangible support, not only through advocacy and awareness, but also through compassionate action that directly touches lives.”
The association’s 2025 achievements included multiple community engagement events: the traditional Easter Tea Party, the Strides for Lupus Fun Walk, SLALA’s inaugural Town Hall Meeting, the October Sunrise Walk for Arthritis Awareness, and the resumption of in-person member meetings. A significant milestone was the donation of a wheelchair to a member with mobility challenges.
“Each effort represents a step forward in empowering persons living with chronic illness and strengthening the support network around them,” the association emphasized.
As SLALA prepares for its expanded 2026 initiatives, the organization has expressed profound gratitude to volunteers, corporate partners, donors, and members whose dedication fueled a year of measurable progress and renewed hope for the chronic illness community.
Those interested in supporting SLALA’s mission can contact 486-7000, email slala.slu@gmail.com, or connect through their social media channels @slala.slu on Facebook and Instagram.