The Blessed Home and Faith Foster Home in Calabar has commended the Nigerian Navy for supporting children in its care, with its centenarian founder, Mrs Blessing Duke, describing the gesture as a gift of hope for the less privileged.

Duke, who established the home in 1970, gave the commendation on Monday when participants of Course 9 of the Nigerian War College donated food items, beverages, and detergents to the facility.

According to her, the support would not only sustain the children for a period but also reassure them that they are not forgotten by society.

“I am very thankful and sincerely appreciate you for remembering these children. You have given them hope for a better tomorrow,” the centenarian said.

Speaking during the visit, the Course President, Umar Abdullahi, explained that the donation was part of the college’s yearly outreach to mark the graduation of its participants. He disclosed that the 30-member Course 9 also included naval officers from Ghana, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

“This gesture is to remind the children that their situation today does not determine their tomorrow. As customary, we chose to celebrate with them so they will know they are loved and not forgotten.”

Similarly, Nkoyo Anado, a beneficiary of the orphanage and now one of its leaders, praised the Navy for sustaining the vision of the founder. She revealed that more than 300 children have passed through the home in its 54 years of existence.

“You have given us hope today. This home made me who I am, and support like this gives us courage to believe tomorrow will be brighter,” she said.

The visit ended with songs and cheers from the children, underscoring the impact of the Navy’s gesture on their morale and outlook for the future.