On March 7th, 2025, a remarkable event took place in the Oworonshoki community as Lagos Food Bank and Quality Foods Africa joined forces through the Temporary Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). The outreach aimed to support over 200 women and families who gathered on Lone Street, and the energy in the air was palpable. Lagos Food Bank, a name that resonates deeply within the community, was greeted with cheers and excitement. The warm reception was met with appreciation from our partners and a dedicated team of volunteers, all eager to make a difference.

The event kicked off with a brief address from Fredrick Van Rooyen, the Managing Director of Quality Foods Africa who emphasized the importance of such initiatives, stating, “This is an opportunity for our organization to impact the community. We believe that this is something we need to do as an organization that is socially responsible and wants to give back as much as we can.” His words echoed the shared commitment to uplift the community during challenging times.

Dr. Michael Sunbola, the Founder/Executive Director of Lagos Food Bank Initiative, also took the stage to highlight the significance of sustaining programs that provide social protection. “When food is available in the household, it reduces social vices like stealing,” he noted. “That’s why we have to continue doing this for the improved wellbeing of people and to promote peace in communities.” His insights resonated with everyone present, reinforcing the necessity of the outreach.

As the women prepared to receive their food packages, they were also given the opportunity to select suitable clothing materials for themselves and their families. This thoughtful inclusion acknowledges that clothing is a basic necessity that can often compete with resources needed for food. The concept of Cloth Banking Nigeria initiative is a vital component of the Lagos Food Bank Initiative’s rounded approach, aimed at alleviating economic burdens and fostering resilient communities.

Once the food packages were distributed, beneficiaries expressed their heartfelt gratitude to both the Lagos Food Bank Initiative and its partner. Their smiles and thankful words reflected the impact of the outreach, not just in terms of food, but also in the hope it instilled in their lives. A team member of Quality Foods Africa shared her thoughts with the media, praising the dedication of the volunteers. “The coordination was seamless, and it’s a testament that Lagos Food Bank Initiative is good at what it does. We hope to reach more people in the future,” she said. The outreach was a successful one as the women were seen leaving the venue with contagious smiles on their faces.