Foundation offers relief, empowerment to 50 widows in Enugu
Fifty widows received a lifeline in Enugu State recently as the Women of Glory Foundation distributed essential relief items and hosted an event targeted at uplifting their spirits.
The occasion, which coincided with International Women’s Day, was organized in collaboration with the Women of Glory Foundation USA and featured a blend of empowerment, entertainment, and encouragement.
The atmosphere at the event was vibrant, as widows engaged in dancing and singing competitions while children showcased traditional dances.
The initiative was not just about providing material support but also about fostering a sense of belonging and emotional strength among widows.
Addressing the widows, Lady Dr. Abigail Igwe, the Chairperson of the Women of Glory Foundation, Enugu branch, highlighted the group’s commitment to supporting widows and the less privileged.
She said: “Today, we’re here to commemorate the Women’s International Day for Widows, organized by the Women of Glory Foundation in Enugu State in collaboration with the Women of Glory Foundation USA. It is a day of testament to empower the widows in our midst and the entire community in Enugu State.”
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“Our mission and vision is to give a helping hand to widows and the less privileged at large, including children who cannot afford school fees like their peers. We also want to ensure that everyone is happy, loved, and recognized in one way or the other with our prayers.”
As part of the outreach, each widow received a package containing a bag of rice, tomatoes, salt, vegetable oil, and a stylish, reusable bag for packaging. Beyond the material gifts, the event sought to remind widows that life goes on, and their strength and resilience can shape a brighter future.
“This organization was established to give hope to widows and encourage them to forge ahead with their lives. The death of a spouse should not mark the end of one’s life. Just trust in God, work hard, and always remember that the Women of Glory cares for you,” Dr. Igwe reassured.
Beyond offering temporary relief, the foundation is equipping widows with practical skills to help them become self-reliant. Dr. Igwe highlighted their ongoing efforts in skill acquisition training, particularly in producing shea butter.
“Women of Glory also empowers widows through skill acquisition. Currently, we’re training some of them on how to produce shea butter, so they can have a constant source of income and not depend on anyone for survival. Once they produce a reasonable quantity, they can sell it.”
By providing widows with a means to earn a livelihood, the foundation aims to break the cycle of dependency and financial hardship that many face.
Igwe also addressed the harsh traditional practices widows endure, stating that the foundation is actively working to combat such injustices.
“Because of the harmful practices against widows, the organization decided to have one-on-one sessions with them and visit them in their homes to check on their welfare. We also host them during festive seasons, but because of International Widows’ Day, we decided to organize this programme.
For many of the widows in attendance, the event was more than just a gathering, it was a moment of hope and reassurance.
Dr. Christine Odita, one of the participants, expressed her gratitude. “I’m a widow. No woman wants to be a widow, but once you find yourself in that situation, don’t stop doing things that make you happy.
“It is also a good thing that the organization has started something like this. They should also invite more women from rural areas and townships for their subsequent events and encourage them that being a widow is not the end of one’s life.”
Another beneficiary, Josephine Chioma, who hails from Anambra State shared her excitement.
“I’m very happy to be at this occasion today, and I’m grateful for the gifts they contributed to us. I also received a gift from them. Yes, I expected the gifts, their words of admonition, and the cultural dance. I advise other widows to think less and be prayerful.”
As the event concluded, it was evident that while widowhood comes with challenges, initiatives like this provide a beacon of hope, reminding widows that they are not alone.
