Port Harcourt by Boat
IWith n the spirit of Christmas, Flame Initiatives, an international NGO, reached out to widows through CINTA Project, a widow-empowerment program, last week, in Lagos.
The memorable event which was sponsored by Nestle Nigeria, GBF, Mcpeens, Kingsword International Church, Igando, Eltee Production Company, 54 Artistry, Citimax Pharmacy and others, had about 100 widows in attendance with their children.
In addition to a free medical check-up, the widows went home with free drugs, food items, school bags for their children, goody bags, and other packages that can make their Christmas really merry. The happy widows did not disappoint on the dance floor as they moved and glided to some melodious tunes.
Guest speaker, Bimpe Oke, encouraged them to keep on in spite of the different challenges they face as widows. Emphasizing that they are responsible for their children, she charged them not to pass on that responsibility to anyone and to ensure their safety. “Our children are our re- sponsibility, you can’t hand them over to someone else. Don’t drop your children anywhere because of life challenges...”
She tackled sexual molestation, emotional pain, child abuse, financial challenges and other issues bothering the widows and also encouraged them to speak out about their challenges and for the organizers to mediate between the widows and human rights groups.
Elated Tolu Oni, one of the event organizers, could not hide her excitement, “I feel fulfilled and I am happy the event was a success. I am glad to give back to the society especially to widows who may be wondering if society cares about them. I encourage everyone to give back to the society in their own little way. We shouldn’t leave everything to the government.”
The widows went home full of smiles, thanking Flame Initiatives for showing love to them in a practical way. This event would not have been successful without support from sponsors and volunteers. It is also open to your support and sponsorship.
CINTA Project is the brainchild of Flames Initiative to empower widows and help them live better lives. Flames Initiative is an international NGO committed to social good and to making a difference in our local communities and across Africa.