Andrew Wildes, Gleaner Writer

They may have come giving, but even they did not leave empty-handed.

"I'm just overwhelmed by the children and their situation." said 22-year-old Tracy Ann Lewis.

Lewis was part of a team from the Rotaract Club of Kingston that visited the Mustard Seed Communities' children's home on Mahoe Drive in Kingston last Friday.

The group of young people making post-Tropical Storm Gustav relief donations handed over two refrigerators, assorted food items, toiletries, cleaning supplies and a number of children's books to the home. The home also received a donation of $10,700.

Less fortunate

The home accommodates children who are abandoned, disabled, mentally challenged and infected by HIV/AIDS.

The visitors were given a tour of the facility and interacted with the wards.

"It's a bit much to see if you don't have the heart for them, but these are our kids and they're less fortunate, so we have to take care of them," said 24-year-old Kadeen Vernon, who was visiting a home for the first time.

Speaking to The Gleaner, Anika Chambers, the home's supervisor, said the gifts were greatly appreciated. Chambers further stated that there were a number of small items members of the public could contribute if they wanted to assist.

"We're always short on diapers. That would be a great, great help, if we could get some diapers."

Detergent, other cleaning supplies and toiletries are also in continuous demand.

Feel the philanthropy bug biting you and just can't resist? Pitch in, donate a gift or spend some time with the kids. Give Mustard Seed Communities a call at 923-6488, 923-2165,937-2010 or (fax) 923-6000; or email mscsec@mustardseed.com.