In the heart of downtown Kingston lies Bethlehem, a sanctuary for disabled children who have been abandoned, neglected, or left by families unable to care for them. Operated by Father Richard Ho Lung’s Missionaries of the Poor, the home is not only a refuge for these children but also a testament to the profound compassion and dedication of its caregivers, like Gail Williams and Sharline Herron.
Both women embody the spirit of service, pouring love and care into their daily work, ensuring that the children under their watch are safe, clean, and loved.
From Unexpected Beginnings to Unwavering Commitment
For 48-year-old Gail Williams, the journey to Bethlehem was unexpected. Originally from St. Elizabeth, she transitioned from farming to working at Norman Manley International Airport before a friend introduced her to the home. “I came to visit and fell in love with the kids,” Williams recalls. Starting as a volunteer, she quickly found herself immersed in the lives of the children, eventually accepting a permanent role.
Her bond with a 10-year-old girl named Asia has been a source of motivation. “God put me here, and Asia keeps me going,” Williams shares with a radiant smile. Although not legally adopted, Asia has become like family, offering encouragement and joy to Williams every day.
Similarly, 43-year-old Sharline Herron’s path to Bethlehem was shaped by resilience. Having faced personal hardships, including dropping out of school after losing her mother, Herron found solace in volunteering. “When I first came here, I was shocked. I didn’t know children like these existed,” she admits. But the shock quickly turned to purpose as she dedicated herself to the work.
Daily Acts of Love
Each day begins early, as Williams and Herron tackle a myriad of tasks — bathing, feeding, and caring for the children. The work is relentless, yet both women approach it with diligence and teamwork.
“Whenever I have something to do, I am just focused on getting it done,” Herron explains, describing the precision required to lift and bathe the children, some of whom require feeding through tubes or special care. “It’s challenging, but the most satisfying part is knowing they are okay,” adds Williams.
Both women admit that the emotional bond they develop with the children makes the job both rewarding and heartbreaking. The hardest moments come when a child passes away. “They are like family to us,” says Herron. Williams nods in agreement, recounting the difficulty of witnessing such loss firsthand.
Challenges and Resilience
The work at Bethlehem is not without its challenges. Feeding children with complex medical needs, managing illnesses, and redoing tasks can be taxing. Yet, the unwavering love for the children keeps Williams and Herron grounded.
“Many people come and go, but a few of us stay and work like soldiers,” says Williams. “We have to ensure the kids are clean, fed, and happy. That’s when we feel fulfilled.”
Looking Ahead
Despite the emotional and physical toll, both women are committed to their roles. Herron dreams of opening a daycare centre someday, while Williams hopes to continue at Bethlehem to watch Asia grow, though she also envisions starting a clothing business if circumstances change.
Their stories are reminders of the transformative power of love and service, and how, through their sacrifices, Bethlehem continues to be a place of hope for children in need.
