The Reggae Boyz yesterday took their minds off their crucial World Cup Qualifier against the United States tomorrow, when they visited the Glenhope Nursery.

All members of the current squad, the entire technical staff and representatives of team sponsor Digicel were present.

"Football is important. Winning a match and improving our chances of qualifying for the World Cup is important, but there are other things in life that are more important, such as showing love and inspiring people, especially young people," the Jamaica team's head coach, Theodore Whitmore, said of their decision to visit and the time spent with the children.

"At this home, there are children who could become great at what they decide to do if they are encouraged, given the chance and the support that they need. I see our coming here today as just our little part of showing our social responsibility," Whitmore added.

The Glenhope Nursery, which is located off Maxfield Avenue, is housed on premises owned by the Government of Jamaica and is one of 13 government-operated child care institutions in Jamaica.

Residing at this nursery are approximately 50 babies and toddlers who have been abandoned, abused, neglected, orphaned or disabled and, as a consequence, are in need of care and protection.

Glenhope Nursery, constructed in 1973, was the first government-built nursery and came about in response to the increased number of children in need of care.