On the 12th of October 2024, Lagos Food Bank Initiative partnered with Bloomberg to address food insecurity through the Temporary Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) initiative of the food bank. The goal of this partnership was to alleviate some of the burdens that resilient families facing economic challenges in low-cost communities endure, by providing them with food relief and essential items to last them for three to four weeks.

Engaging fully in the packaging and distribution of the food boxes, the Bloomberg team showed solidarity with the underserved communities by gifting each beneficiary with cash, along with their food boxes, an act of benevolence that breeds hope in the hearts of attendees of the outreach.

“Just the day before yesterday, I was crying with my children because we had nothing to eat at night. I even went to my neighbor to ask for help and she told me even her and her children had not eaten for days. Only for me to get a call from Lagos Food Bank saying that I should come and collect food. I had to walk down here because I had no money for transport, only to be given a box of food items and some money. I am very grateful to the food bank and their partners for this wonderful gift of love and support.” Those were the words captured from a testimonial by Mrs. Folake, a beneficiary of the distribution from Oshodi Community in Lagos.

Another beneficiary was heard saying after receiving her package; “I cannot thank you people enough because this food is what my family needs right now.” This timely distribution guarantees food security for the families of the beneficiaries for about a month, addressing the pressing concern of hunger and lack of access to food resources.

Speaking to the food bank media team, a team member from Bloomberg, Anthony Osaebro, expressed his delight at the successful partnership with the food bank. He said; “my favourite part of the outreach was the packaging of the food boxes, for me and my team it was more of an exercise for us.” He also encouraged other organizations to reach out to vulnerable communities through impactful initiatives of the Lagos Food Bank.

By partnering with Lagos Food Bank on several occasions, Bloomberg has shown a deep concern for the well-being of struggling families in low-cost communities, and this proves to be a lifeline for many families living below the poverty line.

Partnerships and volunteering play a crucial role in addressing food insecurity and uplifting vulnerable communities towards resilience and sustainability. Each partner and volunteer contribution fosters a sense of belonging, community development and hope among those they serve. Together, they weave a safety net of support, reminding us that we are capable of driving positive change in our society.