With food insecurity continuing to threaten the wellbeing of food-insecure households, the Lagos Food Bank remains committed to not just feeding bodies—but restoring dignity and nourishing lives.
On Saturday 26th April, Lagos Food Bank Initiative reached women in food-insecure communities in Lagos at the Food Bank warehouse. This outreach allowed beneficiaries the freedom to choose food items that best suited their household needs—rather than the pre-packed food boxes.
A diverse range of food items was made available, including grains, proteins, condiments, canned foods, beverages and fresh produce. By giving beneficiaries the power to select their own food items, we were able to not only honor their preferences and dietary requirements but also significantly reduce food waste. The setup created a marketplace-like atmosphere, which the beneficiaries described as welcoming and dignifying.
In preparation for the outreach, dedicated Food Bank volunteers and team members worked tirelessly to organize the food items, support beneficiaries through the selection process, and ensure the smooth flow of operations throughout the outreach.
The response from the beneficiaries was overwhelmingly positive. One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Esther Adebayo, a mother of four, shared her experience:
“Today, I feel so happy. I was able to choose what my family really needed. I didn’t have to take home things we wouldn’t use. It felt like I was buying from the market.”
Her words reflect the essence of what this model aims to achieve—restoring choice, dignity, and practical support.
This outreach reaffirmed our belief at the Lagos Food Bank Initiative that food support should go beyond charity; it should be rooted in dignity, choice, and beneficiary connection. By listening to our beneficiaries and trusting them to know what their families need most, we are not only nourishing bodies but also nurturing hope and resilience.
At Lagos Food Bank Initiative, we remain dedicated to innovating our approach, strengthening partnerships, and reaching even more families with compassion and purpose.