In a heartwarming and impactful gesture, the Worship for Change Foundation, a distinguished non-profit organization, recently made headlines by generously donating ₦33 million to four special needs schools across Nigeria. The benevolent contribution, presented at a moving ceremony in Lagos, aims to empower these institutions and provide crucial support to underprivileged children with disabilities.
The four beneficiary schools, namely Joy in Africa Foundation in Asaba, Let Cerebral Palsy Kids Learn Foundation in Lagos, Sedoo Initiative for Children with Special Needs in Abuja, and To Omo Re Centre for Special Empowerment in Ilorin, each received a substantial ₦8.25 million. This financial boost is expected to make a significant impact on the educational and therapeutic resources available for these children.
The funds were raised through the Green Worship Benefit concert, a star-studded event held on October 2, 2023, featuring renowned Nigerian gospel artists Nathaniel Bassey, Tope Alabi, Cobhams Asuquo, and Waje. The successful event showcased the power of unity and music in contributing to a noble cause.
Wale Adenuga, Chief Responsibility Officer of Worship for Change and a prominent gospel artist, expressed the organization’s unwavering commitment to supporting vulnerable children. Reflecting on his journey since 2004, Adenuga shared, “I’ve been driven to use my platform to help indigent children, especially children with special needs. These children are special, and God cares deeply for them.”
The impact of Worship for Change extends beyond this recent donation. Having raised over ₦120 million for 38 charities dedicated to caring for orphans and children with special needs in Nigeria, the organization continues to be a beacon of hope for those in need.
Adenuga emphasized transparency and accountability, assuring stakeholders of rigorous monitoring to ensure the funds are utilized effectively. “We will follow up closely to verify that the money is used as intended, addressing the specific needs outlined by each school,” he stated.
The donation ceremony was a poignant moment, marked by raw emotions from the founders of the benefiting schools. Mrs. Kawan Aondofa-Anjira, founder of the Sedoo Initiative, tearfully shared her personal journey raising children with cerebral palsy, highlighting the societal stigma and discrimination they faced. Her heartfelt testimony underscored the critical need for support and understanding.
Tobiloba Ajayi, founder of Let Cerebral Palsy Kids Learn Foundation and herself living with the condition, echoed Mrs. Aondofa-Anjira’s sentiment. “Growing up, I realized society deemed children like me unworthy, even denying them education despite our parents’ efforts,” she shared, emphasizing the challenges faced by those with special needs.
These compelling testimonies resonated deeply with the audience, shining a light on the crucial role these schools play in nurturing and empowering children with special needs. Rev. Samuel Abiodun Ajayi, representing To Omo Re Centre, expressed immense gratitude for the timely support. “This donation is appreciated,” he exclaimed. “We were facing numerous challenges, and this will make a significant difference.”
In conclusion, Worship for Change Foundation’s commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of special needs children in Nigeria is commendable. Their recent donation stands as a testament to the power of collective action and serves as a beacon of hope for a brighter future for these deserving children.
