Kind 10-y-o brings comfort to sick children

Jazmin Corner, an inviting space for young patients at the May Pen Hospital to read and relax, was officially opened last Friday.

The area, located on the Paediatric Ward, was outfitted by 10-year-old Canadian-Jamaican actress and singer Jazmin Headley at a cost of CDN$6,000 (approximately $684,000).

It is equipped with a computer, reading books and toys. Each child on the ward was presented with a gift package. The youngster, who heads the Jazmin Foundation, told JIS News that she began her philanthropic journey three years ago, during the pandemic, after receiving several gifts that she neither used nor needed, and decided to give them away. Her parents also influenced her decision to donate.

"My parents always told me their story, because they grew up here [Jamaica] and they said ... they did not have a lot growing up. So, I figured that even if they are no longer little kids, I can help the people who are now little kids. Instead of taking, I decided to give," Jazmin told JIS News, noting that giving back makes her feel "warm and fuzzy" inside.

Over the years, she has raised funds to provide wheelchairs, clothing, and other items to needy children in Jamaica and Canada. She receives help from her parents to undertake these efforts.

Jazmin's mother, Debra Myers, said that the family has a culture of giving and she is proud to see that her daughter is inspired to do charitable work at such an early age.

"Ever since I moved to Canada, I am always shipping things back to Jamaica, so Jazmin is just taking over from what I was doing. It makes me feel good. I am hoping that other children will admire her and want to do what she is doing," she said.

Jazmin features in Canadian TV show Ukulele U and will appear in a movie, which is expected to be out this month. She said that her goal is to use the proceeds from her earnings to set up a Jazmin Corner in every public hospital in Jamaica.