From Prayers to Action
Our Journey
The above captions represent a few of the, headlines across Jamaica in 2015; reflecting a deeply troubling rise in crime against children. For Shirley Walters, this period was especially devastating, as two of the affected children came from communities close to hers.
Moved by faith and a deep commitment to her community, Shirley gathered four colleagues in her home for weekly prayer meetings. United by concern for the safety and well-being of the nation’s children, they sought divine guidance and protection for the nation's children.
As these heartfelt gatherings continued, the group began to uncover other challenges facing young people in their area. One critical issue quickly became clear: many children lacked the financial means to pursue their education.
Recognizing the urgent need for action, Shirley and her colleagues introduced a simple but powerful initiative. Each week, participants contributed whatever they could into a container labeled “For Needy Students.” Placed in Shirley’s home, it became a symbol of hope, solidarity, and shared responsibility. Visitors to her home were also invited to give, strengthening the collective effort.
At the start of each school year, the funds collected were presented to the parents of selected students, providing much-needed financial assistance for educational expenses. Beyond immediate relief, this effort fostered unity and a strong sense of community.
From these humble beginnings, the Shirley Walters Foundation was born. What started as a small prayer group grew into a movement dedicated to uplifting children and ensuring they have the resources to thrive.
In 2019, the Foundation’s establishment took a defining step forward when Ainsley Dixon—one of the many individuals who benefited from Shirley’s generosity—announced at her memorial service that a scholarship organization should be created in her honour. This act ensured the continuation of her legacy of selfless giving and genuine care for the spiritual and physical well-being of others.
Today, the Shirley Walters Foundation upholds the faith-based principles on which it was founded while actively addressing the needs of children across Jamaica. Through collective effort and unwavering dedication, the organization works to make educational goals attainable for students who require financial assistance.
A New Way to Give Back
Our Story
In 2019, during the heartfelt memorial service for Shirley Walters, Ainsley Dixon stood before family and friends to share how her generosity transformed his life. Aunty Shirley, as he affectionately called her, was a beacon of kindness whose unwavering belief in him opened doors he never imagined possible.
Through her support, Ainsley received a full scholarship for high school—an opportunity that became the foundation for his future success. Later, with the help of another scholarship, he pursued university studies, breaking free from poverty and excelling both academically and professionally.
Today, he stands as a living testament to her legacy.
In his tribute, Ainsley expressed his strong desire for the establishment of a scholarship foundation in Shirley Walters’ honour—one that would continue her mission of selfless giving and genuine concern for the well-being of others. He envisioned it as a vessel of hope, offering life-changing opportunities to students who simply need a chance to succeed.
With deep gratitude and determination, Ainsley made the first donation of 15,000 Jamaican dollars (approximately 100 USD), marking the beginning of a foundation committed to transforming lives.
Through this initiative, Shirley Walters’ spirit of generosity continues to inspire and uplift others, ensuring that her legacy of faith, compassion, and giving lives on.
Ainsley Dixon (Pictured left)
Carrying the Vision Forward