Andrew Gallimore, minister of state in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, has a moment with five-year-old Zelda Hall at the Jerusalem Children's Home in Spanish Town, St Catherine, on Tuesday. - Ricardo Makyn/Staff Photographer

It was cheering voices and pretty smiles that greeted government minister Andrew Gallimore on his visit to the Jerusalem Children's Home in Spanish Town, St Catherine, on Tuesday.

"How are you, sir? We thank you for being here. We love you," said a ward to the state minister.

The visit heralded an early Christmas to the children, many of whom have disabilities or HIV/AIDS, at the facility, which is run by the Mustard Seed Communities charity.

Among the gifts handed over were stuffed toys, books and other goodies, which were gladly received by the children, who showed appreciation for the spirit of goodwill.

"Each time I see a child with disability, it shows me that we need to care for them in a special way, as they need our help, so it is pleasing that we were able to assist," said Gallimore, whose ministry has responsibility for persons with disabilities.

Mustard Seed's acting Executive Director Darcey Tulloch-Williams said the handover was a timely gesture.

"These children need all the support they can get and the minister's visit is quite timely. His gifts will go a long way in cheering up the spirits of the children,'' reasoned Tulloch-Williams.

rasbert.turner@gleanerjm.com