Economically disadvantaged women and families, and people living with disabilities in underserved communities across Lagos State received much-needed support through the Temporary Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) of the Lagos Food Bank Initiative on the 27th of October, 2025, at the Food Bank warehouse in Mangoro, Ikeja, as the iconic gospel artist, Tope Alabi, celebrated her birthday in remarkable fashion.

This partnership experienced a show of compassion, generosity, and genuine love and care for humanity. From the moment the celebrant and partner of the day, Tope Alabi, was received by the Food Bank team and welcomed warmly and wholeheartedly by volunteers, the day was filled with pure inspiration and a sense of togetherness to address the issue of food insecurity, while celebrating the life of a public figure that many look up to for spiritual upliftment.

From the packaging of the food boxes to the distribution exercise, the energy and participation from the celebrant and partner was flawless. In her speech to the attendees of the outreach, she expressed her delight in partnering with the Lagos Food Bank on such an important day to do something she has always wanted to do; give back to society. She appreciated the Food Bank for their service to humanity, and the volunteers for their selfless sacrifice to give their time and energy to ensure the needy have immeasurable support.

The Founder/Executive Director of the Food Bank, Dr. Michael Sunbola, expressed a heartwarming appreciation to the partner and celebrant, Tope Alabi, for her thoughtful gesture to celebrate her birthday in a most meaningful manner, highlighting her remarkable works and impact worth emulating in the gospel music industry. He also congratulated her on her milestone and wished her the very best to come in sound health. He rounded up his speech by appreciating the volunteers present, especially the new ones attending an outreach for the first time.

Mr. Lucky Ogunlade, a visually impaired beneficiary of the distribution from Mushin community, during his testimonial with the Food Bank’s media unit, deeply appreciated the Food Bank for all they have been doing to support the needy in various communities, stating that he had been hearing of their works and was here for collection for the second time. He also prayed for, and thanked the partner of the day, highlighting how her name is a household name through the wonderful music she makes to enrich the spirit of those living in faith.

Indeed, birthday celebrations have proven to present an opportunity to impact the lives of vulnerable people in underserved communities, through the services of the Lagos Food Bank Initiative, the leading frontline nonprofit organization addressing food insecurity and malnutrition in the nation.