Sheriel Brown is committed to giving back to Jamaica, although she now lives abroad. Recently, she hosted a back-to-school event in Bodles Crescent, St. Catherine, that benefited hundreds of children and even older residents in surrounding communities who received bags of groceries.
A past student of Old Harbour High School, Brown grew up in Bodles in a home where her parents laid a strong spiritual foundation. She gave her life to God at the age of 13 and remained committed after migrating.
Seeing the ongoing needs of her community, Brown felt called to make a difference. That passion birthed Sheriel International Ministry Of Hope Inc., a registered non-profit since 2022, but in operation since 2016.
Twice yearly, she organises food distributions, care packages for the elderly, back-to-school drives with bags and supplies, and Christmas treats where toys are handed out. Her support also extends to local football and cycling events as well as group homes.
In an interview with Freedom Come Rain, Brown acknowledged the many challenges, but expressed gratitude for her sponsors in the United States who share her vision. A lot of the funding comes from her own pocket.
“My relationship and obedience to the will of God has caused me to walk into the plans and purpose He has for my life. I live by Matthew 25:40,” she said:
“And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, In as much as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”
For her, meeting the basic needs of residents and strengthening family dynamics is fulfilling. “It’s about putting smiles on faces through simple acts of kindness,” she added.
At her most recent event on Saturday, July 19, 260 children and 100 adults gathered at her transformed home, which now accommodates these outreach events.
While she takes joy in giving back, Brown has also voiced frustration with the renewal process for her ministry.
“The short time I have to complete the paperwork, along with the many corrections and changes they ask for, makes it overwhelming,” she said. “I just hope I get it all done before heading back to the States.”
Her one wish is that the process be made simpler and that staff at the relevant offices offer more helpful guidance—pointing out how to get things done, instead of just highlighting what’s wrong.
