The President of Save Our Children Foundation, Mrs. Rosemary Aburimen, has appealed to all levels of government in Oyo State and Nigeria to support non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in their efforts to improve the lives of the poor and less privileged in the society.
Mrs. Aburimen made this appeal during the second edition of the foundation’s end-of-year party, thanksgiving, and award ceremony, held at the Alumni Centre, University of Ibadan.
In her address, Mrs. Aburimen highlighted the foundation’s mission to assist disadvantaged children by providing essential items such as food, clothes, books, and writing materials.
“The mission of our foundation is to help the poor and less privileged in society. We visit schools, villages, orphanages, and other places to provide support, particularly for children,” she said.
She explained that the foundation organizes its outreach programs three times a year. The first takes place in May, the second in September during school resumption when educational materials like books, pencils, uniforms, and food are distributed, and the third in December as part of the festive season.
For the 2024 end-of-year program, Mrs. Aburimen revealed that the foundation visited multiple locations to bring joy to the less privileged.
“We went to the streets to feed poor children, visited a rehabilitation center in Moniya, and reached out to disabled individuals at Temidire, Moniya. From there, we proceeded to Onidundu village with Father Christmas and visited an orphanage home in Sango, Ibadan,” she stated.
She emphasized the importance of the foundation’s work in feeding and bringing happiness to the less privileged, especially during festive seasons.
“We gave them drinks, food, water, and snacks so they could also experience the joy of the season. At Rosario Orphanage in Sango, we donated various items to support the children,” she added.
Reflecting on the foundation’s journey since its inception in July 2021, Mrs. Aburimen noted that it has brought smiles to the faces of many children over the years. She also highlighted the challenges faced by children in rural public schools who lack basic necessities, underscoring the need for external support.
She called on the government and well-meaning individuals to assist the foundation financially, noting that its activities are primarily funded through donations from members and a few supporters.
“With more support and funding, we can do even more for the poor and less privileged,” she said, adding that a lack of funds remains the NGO’s biggest challenge.
Mrs. Aburimen warned that neglecting the education and welfare of disadvantaged children could lead to societal issues, urging the government to collaborate with NGOs to address this problem.
Her husband, Mr. Lucky Aburimen, also expressed gratitude to individuals who have supported the foundation’s cause.
The event featured remarks from notable figures, including Dr. P.O. Oke, former Sub-Dean of the Faculty of Arts, University of Ibadan; Mr. Abayomi Adewunmi, Senior Deputy Registrar, University of Ibadan; and Mr. Oluyemisi Adebayo Olaoye, Deputy Registrar, University of Ibadan.
A highlight of the program was the presentation of awards to individuals who have made significant contributions to the foundation’s mission.
