In 2001, the “Sponsored Mom” program was organized through the vision of Cindy Simms.
Cindy recognized the need for support of a group of children afflicted with the
HIV/AIDS virus. With the support of friends and family, Cindy developed a child
sponsorship program where individuals were matched with children afflicted with
the Aids virus. Additionally the program that Cindy initiated secured clothing,
food school supplies and money for medication. As a result of the “Sponsored Mom”
program the Circle of Hands Foundation Inc. was incorporated and registered with
the State of Connecticut in 2002.
The Circle of Hands Foundation is a Hartford based 501 (c) non profit organization
that assist three orphanages in Jamaica that cares for children with HIV/AIDS. We
work directly with the caregivers and children in the homes. In addition to helping
with the purchase of school uniforms, fees for after school activities, aid in sponsoring
an annual outing for the children, we send over $1,000 (US) per month to the homes
to assist in the purchasing of food. 100% of the funds that we receive go directly
to the children. Our only overhead expense is our post office box that we maintain.
Currently there are 77 children (50 girls and 27 boys) ranging in age from 3 to
19 years old. 56 of the children are located in Spanish Town and the remaining 21
(all boys) are at Matthew 25:40 in Kingston. All the children at the present time
are responding well to their ARV therapy. All the children are treated at the Pediatrics
HIV/AIDS clinic at University of the West Indies Hospital and the Bustamante Children
Hospital in Kingston.
The organization is run by a group of dedicated volunteers and relies on the generosity
of individuals and organizations.
“You give but little when you give your possessions. It is when you give of yourself
that you truly give” – Kahil Gibran