NEM Staff Bring Christmas Cheer to Children at Walker’s Place of Safety
Esther Francis-Hill, Human Resource Services Manager at NEM Insurance, helped to organise the Christmas Treat for kids at the Walker’s Place of Safety last year, but she was not satisfied.
Therefore, Mrs. Francis-Hill along with Harel Linton, Senior Manager, Management Information Systems, made a decisionlast October that the NEM employees would give more than just presents. It all came together on Wednesday, December 21, when the staff held a mini-concert for the children at the Home, while also providing the traditional Christmas gifts.
“Christmas is about giving,” Ms. Francis Hill said. “But more than giving presents, it is about giving of yourself.”
Mrs. Francis Hill proved that point by leading a chorus of popular Christmas carols with the active participation of the children during the visit. She also studied sign language so that she could “sign” the singing of ‘Silent Night’ for one of the children, who is hearing impaired.
Stephanie McKenzie-Hinds, Supervisor at the home, at 17 Lyndhurst Crescent, in St. Andrew, commended Mrs. Francis Hill for her “signing performance,” saying that it was a good presentation, which was highly appreciated by her young charge.
Mr. Linton then read a story as part of a multi-media presentation before a skit, ‘Revival in the Land,’ was performed by costumed members of the NEM staff to the roaring approval of their audience.
The high point of the afternoon was the presentation of the gifts of toys contributed by the employees of the general insurance companies.
“The children were looking forward to this visit,” said Miss Grace Allen, Manager of the Home. “They especially enjoyed the play and of course they appreciated the presents.”
In addition, to their Christmas visits, NEM staffers maintain a year-round relationship with the children at Walker’s Place of safety through their volunteers, who assist the children with their school work. Under that initiative, a total of 30 staff members are rostered on a weekly basis to visit the Home, and provide homework support for the children.
