Christmas is a season of joy, celebration and gratitude. Its neighbour, the New Year celebration, is like icing on top of an already beautiful and delicious cake–a chance to take a break in preparation for the new year. Yet, there exist so many people who never experienced the fullness of this season due to lack and depravity. There are people who cannot take a break from the cycle of hardship because doing so might endanger their lives.

We set out to change this for 25 households in the Kurudu community–a vibrant yet underserved area in the Federal Capital Territory of Abuja and our fourth port of call in the end-of-the-year outreach by the Benzone Development Foundation. 

Understanding the importance of extending support during such times, especially to low-income households and single mothers, for whom putting food on the table can feel like a losing battle, we held firm to our commitment to empower communities and foster sustainable development, aiming to bring smiles and relief to those in need.

Year-End Outreach in KURUDU Community

The morning air in Kurudu was crisp and seemed to buzz with anticipation as the BDF’s team of 12 volunteers arrived early, ready to begin a day that would leave an indelible mark on the hearts of the families they were about to serve. This outreach was not just about handing out food; it was about making meaningful connections and showing that every family deserves to be seen, heard, and cared for.

Upon arrival, the volunteers were greeted warmly by community leaders. These leaders had been instrumental in helping the BDF identify the households most in need. Through this collaboration, the volunteers were able to ensure optimal, efficient and impactful food distribution while reaching those for whom it would make the biggest difference. We must say that building relationships with local leaders is a key component of our outreach strategy at BDF since it helps to tailor our efforts to the unique needs of each community and also to sustain longterm engagement.

As the sun climbed higher, casting a golden glow on the roofs, faces and dusty ground that made up the Kurudu landscape, the volunteers began unpacking the Benzone Outreach Packs, each filled with a carefully curated selection of essential food items. The packs contained small bags of rice, cans of vegetable oil, cartons of noodles, and a variety of food spices and seasonings—items that would bring not only nourishment but also joy, smiles and relief to the holiday meals of over 25 families. 

This was indeed the highlight of the day as the atmosphere quickly changed from that of mere excitement to joyful glee and gratitude as each hand stretched to receive a relief package. Every smile was a renewed pledge of our commitment to make a positive impact in the lives of these vulnerable communities. With Kurudu, we marked another successful chapter in our year-end outreach–bringing comfort and cheer to over 25 households, a reminder that true joy comes not only from what we receive but from what we give to others. In Kurudu, that gift was the gift of hope.

JOIN US!

We want to empower more underserved communities in Nigeria. With your partnership, we can do this and more. While these stories may seem common or usual, we must never forget that these are real people who are economically disadvantaged, impoverished and often daily wondering where their next meal will come from. 

Join us to make a difference. It is our aim to combine charity with empowerment so we begin to see real change. With your partnership, we can provide not just food items but education and skill acquisition in these communities.