Christmas: LAAF, ECF donate food items, others to Lagos rehab centre inmates
In the spirit of Christmas, Esthers’ Company Fellowship (ECF) in collaboration with Life After Abuse Foundation (LAAF) organised the “Hope for Christmas Rehab Outreach for Men” on the 25th of December to support men.
The initiative involved a donation drive, free medical check-up and psychosocial support for men at the Lagos State Correctional and Rehabilitation Centre, Magodo, Isheri.
In a press released by the founder of LAAF, Halima Layeni, she said that the holiday season is a time of reflection and hope.
She further asserted that “many of them might feel estranged from the joys of the season due to their circumstances. The absence of family and community support can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and despair. Providing them with a sense of belonging, care, and hope during this time can make a significant difference in their lives.”
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Esthers’ Company Fellowship in partnership with LAAF provided free medical check-ups and as well as addressing the immediate health needs of men at the Lagos State Correctional and Rehabilitation Centre in a bid to convey the message that their well-being matters, fostering a sense of dignity and care, noting that it is crucial for them as many may have neglected their health due to their situations, leading to untreated illnesses or chronic conditions.
The men also received free psychosocial support, including counselling and emotional guidance, providing a safe space for them to express themselves, process their feelings, and receive guidance on coping mechanisms and behavioural change.
Also, essential items including foodstuff, medications and toiletries were donated to address their basic needs, ensuring they have adequate personal hygiene items.
LAAF extended its gratitude to Imoleoluwa Layeni, founder of Esthers’ Company Fellowship Give-Back Initiative, describing her as being instrumental in spearheading the project. Saying that “Imoleoluwa’s unwavering commitment and dedication to serving the community have laid the foundation for the success of this noble cause. Also, her visionary leadership and compassionate spirit have inspired numerous individuals to join hands in making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need this Christmas”.
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LAAF thanked African Village, Ajebota Chef, BQ Fragrance Collection, Chidinma Ibemere Foundation, Diamonds in Disguise, Elbe Pharmacy, FA Catering Service, Gifted Hands Hair Studio (UK), Gleeworld Pharmacy, Ife Talks, Movement Architecture, Olori’s Creation, Penny Lender, Sentinel Barristers and Solicitors, Sinbol Group, Switly’s Bake Shop, and Tai Mah’s Catering for their partnership, sponsorship, and donation which led to the success of “Hope For Christmas Rehab Outreach for Men”.
LAAF also appreciated its volunteers including Anjola Ademola-Osinuga, Anthony Iduma, Beauty Onouha, Edidiong Asanga, Edinyanga Enang, Ifeoluwa Adesuwa, Ololade Awaya, Ladyann Crown, Lydia Ohonsi, John-Peter Ikegbule, Pinnacle Taiwo, Promise Taiwo, Rilwan Tijani, Sylvia Ofem, Tairat Layeni, and Toluse Francis for their invaluable support.
LAAF encouraged everyone to embrace the spirit of forgiveness, kindness, and compassion. Creating safe spaces and fostering a sense of inclusion for all individuals, especially men, contributes to a more compassionate society.
It also extended warm wishes for a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year in advance, filled with joy, hope, and renewed determination.
