HUNDREDS of people from Philippi in Cape Town converged on NaluxoloPrimary School on Saturday for a free health check.

Conducted by the Hanani Holistic Health organisation, the health exams were organised by the Samora Machel Ekuphumleni Baptism Fellowship Church in an effort to assist thecommunity.

People received checkups for TB, HIV-Aids and breast cancer. Pap smears, alcohol and drug counselling, blood pressure testing, eye screening and foot care were also on offer.

Reverend Steven Bantu of Ekuphumleni said he was inspired to arrange the day because "Jesus had been a healer". The church was not only for preaching but also for community development.

Nonkosi Mazula, 66, described the day as a wonderful experience.

"I came to check my blood pressure and eyes because there is no clinic in Samora Machel. And I also bought eye glasses as they are cheap."

Mandisa Neka, 45, said volunteer nurses and chiropodists had cured her painful feet.

"I was limping, but now I am fine as nurses bathed and rubbed my feet," she said, lambasting clinics for giving pain killers only to dying people.

Vernon Wagner, chairperson of Hanani Holistic Health, said they were there to help the people who cannot afford the services.

"Our obligation is to visit remote areas like farms and rural areas which are far from the health centres to provide them with special services."