Christmas: Foundation appeals to govt. on social welfare for elderly
Old people and widows in Ifako-Ijaye and its environs have enjoyed the foundation’s one-week event of spreading love, charity, and care to the aged and vulnerable widows in the society.
Touch of Love and Lifting Hands Foundation, a humanitarian organisation, on Thursday called on the government to invest in social welfare programmes that address the unique needs of elderly citizens and widows.
Its Founder, Dr Atinuke Owolabi, made the call during the grand finale of the organisation’s annual end-of-year party and feeding programme for the elderly and widows in Lagos.
She urged governments at all levels to ensure improved welfare programmes for old people and widows.
Owolabi also called for the provision of accessible healthcare and financial security for the elderly while urging governments to collaborate with humanitarian organisations to reach underserved communities and create lasting impacts.
She said that old people and widows in Ifako-Ijaye and its environs have enjoyed the foundation’s one-week event of spreading love, charity, and care to the aged and vulnerable widows in the society.
“We are delighted that over 500 individuals received gift items, rice, garri, condiments, and other essentials, to make their Christmas season truly enjoyable.
“This initiative has not only been about providing material support but also about creating a space where the elderly and widows feel valued, supported, and empowered.
“It is a reminder that even small acts of kindness can have a ripple effect, bringing hope and light to those who need it most,” she said.
Owolabi thanked donors, volunteers and supporters whose generosity and commitment made programmes of the foundation successful.
“Let us continue to work together to build a society where no one is left behind, especially during seasons of celebration like this,” she said.
In the same vein, Mrs Deborah Oyekanmi, an 86-year-old widow, joined other beneficiaries of the food distribution to pray for the foundation and its founder.
Also, the Akwa Ibom Community Ogba-Ikeja Lagos Chapter presented a Leadership/Visionary Award to Owolabi for her dedication, hard work and selfless contribution to humanity and the community.
Supreme news reports that the weeklong event, which began on Dec. 19, featured fun and games, free medical screening and health talk, empowerment training, and thanksgiving, among others.