By Ayoni M. Agbabiaka
Abuja
As parts of its reach out efforts to widows and orphans in the Federal Capital Territory, a non-governmental organisation, Helpline Foundation for the Needy, has distributed food and clothing materials to over 200 widows and children orphaned by HIV/AIDs, ahead of the Christmas celebration.
The Foundation also presented awards to some media outfits in recognition of their roles in propagating the plight of the less privileged over the years.
Speaking with journalists after the event, the founder of Helpline Foundation, Mrs.
Jumai Ahmadu, explained that the effort was aimed at bringing succour to the less privileged in the society in the face of the current economic crunch in the country.
Mrs. Ahmadu, however, stressed the need for relevant agencies to support the needy, especially, during this economic recession, adding that the protection and care for the vulnerable in the society should be paramount for peaceful coexistence.
According to her, this year’s event is the 17th in the series of its outreach programmes to cater for the poor in the society, just as she noted that over the years, the Foundation had empowered over 2, 000 widows in various entrepreneurial skills.
“This year’s edition, which is 17th in the series, is part of our efforts to create awareness on the need to show love that will leave a lasting memory of the true meaning of Christmas in hearts of these groups”, she added.
Earlier, in her remarks, the special guest and wife of the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Mrs. Eta Usani Usani, commended the initiative of the Foundation, adding that the gesture was in line with the mandate of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs.
“I came to support her not just as a friend but her initiative is in line with our mandate in the Ministry of Women Affairs. Just as the founder had stated earlier, there is nobody too poor to give. No matter how poor you may appear, there is always somebody poorer than you. Therefore, it is a good concept and I encourage relevant agencies to support her.”
The high point of the occasion was the award to three media organisations- The Abuja Inquirer, NTA News 24 and AIT for their contributions to the growth and development of orphans and widows.