Amid economic hardship facing the country, the NEW AGE Foundation has donated foodstuffs to about 500 families in need in Gbara/Mayegun community in Lekki, Lagos State.
The drive was organised on Wednesday, March 28, 2024, with the aim of alleviating pressing hardships faced by residents of the area who mostly live in wooden makeshift apartments devoid of basic amenities such as toilets, bathrooms, and kitchens.
“With an average family income ranging between N30,000 to N40,000 monthly, the specter of poverty looms large over the Gbara/Mayegun community, casting a shadow of uncertainty over their futures. According to world standards, a family earning below $1.90 per day is classified as living in extreme poverty. The income bracket of the families in Gbara/Mayegun falls well below this threshold, underscoring the urgent need for intervention and support.
“The dire socioeconomic conditions in Gbara/Mayegun have also taken a toll on the health of its residents, particularly impacting vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Limited access to healthcare services exacerbates existing health challenges, leaving many without the necessary medical attention they require. Children are particularly susceptible to malnutrition and preventable diseases, while pregnant women face heightened risks during childbirth due to inadequate prenatal care. The elderly, already burdened by age-related health issues, struggle to access essential medications and treatments. All these due to the low income capacity of the residents. Their condition is a typical poor community in the heart of the Lagos luxurious life.
“Yet, amidst these hardships, the NEW AGE Foundation emerged as a beacon of hope, delivering essential provisions to those on the brink of desperation. The Foundation’s commitment to effecting positive change extends far beyond the confines of this singular food drive. As an organization dedicated to catalyzing transformative impact, the NEW AGE Foundation employs a multifaceted approach to community outreach, leveraging avenues such as music, entertainment, creativity, gaming, e-sports, education, and healthcare to uplift and empower marginalized populations,” a statement issued by the foundation read.
The foundation added that it will continue to provide supports for residents of the community after securing necessary local approvals.