The recently concluded “Widow Charity Event” in Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area has profoundly impacted the lives of its beneficiaries. Organised by Dr. Marshall Umoren, a US-based medical practitioner, and his wife, Dr. Ifiok Umoren, this remarkable initiative under the Hightower Foundation’s Think Humanity Initiative provided much-needed support to widows across the local government area. Entirely funded by the Foundation without government or external assistance, the event exemplified true compassion and community-focused leadership.
Inclusive Support for Widows Across All Zones
The program aimed to support 110 widows, with beneficiaries randomly selected from all 11 wards of Ibiono Ibom LGA. The selection process was fair and transparent, involving village members who verified the widows’ true conditions. Importantly, the initiative was nonpartisan and inclusive, cutting across all zones of the local government area regardless of political affiliation.
Moved by compassion, Dr. Umoren went beyond the original list of beneficiaries, extending assistance to additional widows who needed help. This selfless act ensured that even more lives were touched during the event.
Each widow received a 10 kg bag of rice and essential condiments such as vegetable oil, canned tomatoes, seasonings, noodles, and cash. For many beneficiaries, this outreach was not just a gesture of charity but a life-changing intervention.
Gratitude from the Beneficiaries
The widows expressed profound gratitude for the support. One beneficiary shared emotionally, “Dr. Umoren has shown us that we are not forgotten. His kindness has given us hope and a reason to smile again. We pray for more blessings upon him and his family.”
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Leadership and Community Appreciation
The event was graced by the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ibiono Ibom, including the party’s chairman, Mr. Umoh Ekop. In his remarks, Mr. Ekop commended Dr. Umoren and the Hightower Foundation for their exemplary service to the community.
“This initiative transcends politics and embodies the true essence of service to humanity,” Mr. Ekop said. “Dr. Umoren has demonstrated what it means to lead with compassion, touching lives regardless of political affiliations or backgrounds. On behalf of the party and the people of Ibiono Ibom, we extend our heartfelt gratitude and prayers for his continued success.”
The Think Humanity Initiative: Driving Change
The Hightower Foundation, through its Think Humanity Initiative, aspires to bring relief and hope to individuals in need, addressing challenges in areas such as social services and healthcare. The widow-focused program is one of many efforts to uplift society’s most vulnerable.
Dr. Umoren, reflecting on the initiative, urged others to embrace the spirit of humanity:
“We all have a role to play in making the world a better place. By thinking beyond ourselves and extending a helping hand, we can create a brighter future for those in need.”
A Call to Action for Society
The Widow Charity Event is a testament to the transformative power of generosity and inclusion. By reaching across political, social, and geographical divides, Dr. Umoren and the Hightower Foundation have set a powerful example of what is possible when humanity takes centre stage.
As the widows rebuild their lives, the prayers and gratitude pouring in from all corners of the community stand as a testament to the initiative’s success. Dr. Umoren’s actions challenge us all to reflect on how we, too, can make a difference.
Through the Think Humanity Initiative, Dr. Umoren continues to inspire hope and change. This remarkable event reminds us that by choosing to think of humanity, we can create a world where kindness, compassion, and care shine brightly for everyone.