St. James 4-H Brings Christmas Cheer to Residents of Hospice

Leaders, teachers and clubbites of the St. James 4-H Clubs brought early Christmas cheer to residents of the Hope Hospice in Albion, when they visited the institution yesterday (Dec. 9), and presented residents with several gift packages containing food, clothing, toiletries and other goodies.
The visit was part of the Movement’s annual Christmas treat and Leaders’ Week celebration.
Established more than seven years ago, the Hope Hospice provides comfort and adequate care for poor persons who have become very ill and are unable to help themselves, and cannot be managed well enough at home. Residents include persons with physical disabilities, and those suffering from terminal illnesses such as cancer.
“They are cared for here and very often, they get well enough to return to their families and caregivers,” said Dr. Michelle Robinson, who oversees the operations of the Hospice and renders medical treatment to residents.
Assistant Administrator of the Hope Hospice, Sister Myrna Velasco, who is a member of the Missionaries of the Poor Sisters, told JIS News that the facility is always appreciative of the many persons and organizations that open their hearts to the residents.
“We are thankful for those who continue to give so that these destitute and less fortunate can experience more comfort and love in their situation,” she stated.
“Here, we try to make all patients, some who are in old age, physically handicapped and others with terminal illnesses happy, and experience warmth and love. Their holistic health is given adequate attention because we believe that even though they may have enough food and medicine, the important ingredients of love and acceptance must also be present,” Sister Myrna told JIS News.
In her remarks, Parish Development Officer for the St. James 4-H Movement, Fiona Banton, said that the visit by the group to the facility, which also serves a large number of persons with HIV/AIDS, is important in dispelling stigma and discrimination attached to the disease.
The Hope Hospice is operated by the Catholic Church and receives assistance from government and non-governmental organisations.