Precious Ahiakwo
In a joint effort to support communities grappling with economic hardship and health challenges, the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Odili Meadow, in collaboration with Lisa Ebede Ideal Vendors and the Rivers State Ministry of Health, launched a transformative outreach program on Sunday, September 1st, 2024. Held at the Ziadaville Event Center in Port Harcourt, the outreach provided crucial medical services, food, clothing, and back-to-school supplies to over 2,000 underserved individuals from Amadi Ama, Okujagu, and Abuloma communities.
The initiative, described by Rotary International District 9141 Governor-Elect Anthony Woghiren as “one of the most impactful projects in the district’s history,” aimed to tackle a range of pressing issues. With the support of medical professionals, the event included free health screenings and treatment for conditions such as malaria and malnutrition-related illnesses. The medical team, led by Dr. Nelyn Okoye, flagged concerns over the rising cases of child malnutrition, Peptic Ulcer Disease, and urinary tract infections in these communities.
Dr. Okoye expressed her worries about the health conditions encountered. “Malnutrition in children is prevalent, and we are seeing a high incidence of other health concerns that urgently need attention. Providing medical care here today is just the beginning of what needs to be done.”
In addition to medical care, the outreach provided food supplies, clothing, and school materials, leaving a lasting impact on the beneficiaries. A single mother of three expressed her gratitude: “My children have been unwell, and I couldn’t afford medical care. Today, they’ve received the medicine they need, and I finally feel some relief.”
The President of the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Odili Meadow, Akintomiwa Makinde, described the initiative as a hallmark of Rotary’s mission to serve humanity. “We are here to make a difference in people’s lives, even if it’s just for today. That’s what Rotary is all about—giving hope to those who need it most.”
Lisa Ebede, CEO of Ideal Vendors, underscored the role of community involvement in making such initiatives possible. “None of this would have been achievable without the support of my husband and our incredible team. Seeing the joy we brought today is beyond rewarding.”
Rotary members Precious Ahiakwo and Jessica Tagbatsemi-Williams, part of the project team, noted that the initiative was a key part of Rotary’s commitment to multiple areas of focus: Mother and Child Health, Disease Prevention, Basic Education, and Economic Empowerment.
As the outreach concluded, Rotary called on public and private sector partners to support future projects aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable communities. Contributions can be made to the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Odili Meadow to help expand the reach of their humanitarian efforts. ***
