150 residents benefit from foundation’s feeding programme in Lagos

About 150 residents in Lagos have benefited from a feeding programme organised by a non profit foundation, Jumokecares Foundation aimed at uplifting, and empowering communities across Nigeria.

The Pop-Up Food Pantry programme held at Olaniyi Far End, Adetola Roundabout, Alakuko, Lagos, provided food relief to over 150 residents, ensuring that struggling families had access to nutritious meals during challenging times.

The food pantry distributed a variety of essential food items, including rice, cereal, wheat flour, oatmeal, canned milk, peanut butter, noodles, and hygiene products.

The initiative, designed to meet people where they are, aims to eliminate barriers that prevent access to food, particularly in low-income and underserved areas.

Residents praised the foundation’s efforts, urging more organisations and individuals to contribute.

“This kind of kindness should be encouraged,” said a local community leader. “If more people step in to help, we can make a real difference.”

A beneficiary and 65-year-old widow, identified simply as Mama Grace, expressed deep gratitude for the support.

“I had no idea how I was going to feed my family this week. This food means everything to us as I have received some and my children too received their own too. May God bless those who made this possible,” she said.

For Musa Ibrahim, a father of three, the assistance came at a crucial time, especially during Ramadan.

“I lost my job six months ago, and life has been very difficult. My wife and I sometimes skip meals just so our children can eat.

“This food package will help us get through the next few weeks as Ramadan continues,” he said.

A 22-year-old student, Esther Okafor, who also benefited from the initiative, highlighted how essential food aid is for young people struggling with living costs.

“As a student living on my own, things can get really tough.

“This support will help me focus on my studies without worrying about where my next meal will come from,” she added.

Speaking, the founder of the group, Jumoke Kolawole, noted that the foundation focuses on providing food aid while also implementing long-term solutions to address food insecurity.

According to her, the mission goes beyond just feeding people.

She said: “We are here to uplift and empower communities. With rising costs and economic hardships, many families are forced to choose between food and other basic needs. We want to make sure no one goes to bed hungry.”

Kolawole emphasised that the foundation’s work extends beyond food distribution, with plans to expand empowerment programmes, educational support, and healthcare outreach.

“What we do is not just about providing meals. It’s about restoring dignity, promoting self-sufficiency, and ensuring no one feels alone in their struggle,” she said

As part of its long-term vision, she said the foundation plans to expand the Pop-Up Food Pantry, strengthen its sanitary pad drive, establish a community resource centre, and launch scholarship programmes for underprivileged children.

Kolawole stressed the importance of collaborations with corporate sponsors, government agencies, and well-meaning individuals to sustain these programmes.