A NON-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Jumoke Cares Foundation, has in consonance with its over 12-year ritual, donated food, clothes, toys and other items to less-privileged children of Agbado and its environs within the Alimosho Council Area of Lagos State.
The founder, Jumoke Kolawole, explained that the gesture was to make the kids happier every Yuletide and beyond, recalling that she used to be disturbed about what to wear during Christmas going by humble background.
Speaking earlier to journalists, Jumoke said: “Since 2021, Jumoke Cares Foundation (sister organisation of Help To The Ageing Foundation (HAF) has been organising our end of year Christmas Kindness Party.
“It is a party for children with needs where we usually share food, Christmas dresses, entertain the kids with music and fun, as well as Santa visit and other gift items. This particular event is aimed at children of people who society call homeless, those who are living on the streets and in open shelter. This year, we are making it happen for no fewer than 100 kids.”
Speaking further, she noted: “Because I know what it feels like to be without, in my heart I now carry a devotion to provide clothing to less fortunate children especially at this Christmas time. Seeing them wear something shiny and new makes me feel proud and happy. It is so fulfilling to see their smiles.”
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Jumoke, who was represented by the Coordinator of the foundation, Mrs. Oyetola Tadema, the United States-based philanthropist recounted: “We started this Christmas party over 12 years ago. My vision has been to care for the needy-both children and the aged (senior citizens).
“When I was growing up, my parents were not that buoyant and I always looked forward to wearing Christmas clothes and eating rice and chicken. Then my father would ask me to choose between wearing Christmas clothes and eating rice and chicken.
“And as you know, chicken and rice would surely come first at the end of the day. While eating rice and chicken, I would be watching other children wearing new clothes while I adorned old wears.”
Similarly, a volunteer, Tolulope Alawode, observed: “What Jumoke Cares Foundation does is to organise outreaches twice every year for the less-privileged-both young and old. But this event is strictly for children.
“This programme is like a Christmas Kindness Outreach (CKO). It is a welfare support programme for children. You know how it feels like a child wearing new clothes during Christmas.”
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