A teacher's heart

Glenda Anderson, Contributor

SIX YEARS ago, when Judith Nembhard opted for a shortcut through the park at National Heroes Circle, she had no idea of the exciting turn her life would take as she stumbled on a rowdy group of children at play.

She recalls, "some were gambling, some were dancing, some very little ones, and some big ones. I just fell in love... and I started thinking if only I could do something for them..."

She later found out that some went to school, some did not, some were from troubled homes, and a few went to Sunday School. Haunted by this scene, she set out to change things.

"I went and spoke to the parents to ask them to send the children out for meetings and Bible studies. They were so happy because they never had the time before to get help for the kids."

Four o'clock Saturday meetings have now become routine. The group steadily grew from six faithful members to the current 35 boys and girls ranging from three to eighteen years.

In addition to Bible studies, the youths get help with school work and counselling.

Ms. Nembhard provides books and pencils for her young ones with help from friends and donations from some parents. The unit functions as a small family, complete with a once per year dinner and regular rap sessions and church visits.

"We help ourselves," she beams, "the kids have a little internal club system where they give dues, especially towards the Christmas dinner."

Originally from Warminister, St. Elizabeth, Ms. Nembhard is 'at home' in her 'class' surroundings. She is quick to point out that "although the setting is bare and rough the atmosphere is very loving and supportive".

The communities too are worlds apart from her Barbican home. She however describes her attachment as one driven by a passion for for caring children.

"They are doing well... at first the kids were so rebellious, but now they have changed. Two have become Christians... and I know the rest of them will soon be as well, and I'll be here as long as they need me."

Glenda Anderson is a third year student at CARIMAC, UWI.

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