By Patrick Ochei
The atmosphere at Heroes Family Church, Okpanam, on Sunday, January 26, 2025, was far from an ordinary service.
It was a day filled with joy and celebration as the Fostering Hopes Foundation announced its second round of business support empowerment for three families.
The beneficiaries of this edition included Mr. Micah U., a father of two, who runs a grilling business; Mrs. Patience O., a mother of four engaged in cooking; and Mrs. Felicia M., a mother of two managing a water and drinks business.
As part of the empowerment package, each family received ₦250,000 in business support funds, while their children, eight in total, were awarded scholarships covering their education from crèche to secondary school.
Speaking on the initiative, the Founder and Coordinator of the Foundation, Nkechi Ukome, expressed her joy in helping families overcome poverty.
“I feel so excited and blessed to be doing this,” Ukome said. “The goal is to alleviate the suffering of families and ensure their children have the opportunity to thrive.
The children are at the core of our mission, which is why we prioritize providing them with comprehensive scholarships until they complete secondary school.”
Ukome also shared the challenges she faced starting the Foundation, noting that her passion for helping others gave her the resolve to persevere.
The Senior Pastor of Heroes Aglow Gospel Ministry, also known as Heroes Family Church, Pastor Elvis Peters Uto, praised Nkechi Ukome for her generosity.
He prayed for her continued success, declaring prophetically that her resources and joy would never run dry.
Representing the collaborating NGO, Stand-Up for Women Society (SWS), Chairperson Comrade Stella Macaulay commended Ukome’s humanitarian efforts.
She encouraged the beneficiaries to utilize the funds wisely to create sustainable growth for their families and communities.
Comrade Josephine Omodor, Executive Director of Eye-On-The-Future Initiative, another supporting NGO, also lauded Ukome’s commitment to uplifting lives.
She pledged ongoing support to ensure that beneficiaries maximize the opportunities provided to them.
Since its inception, the Fostering Hopes Foundation has empowered six families and provided scholarships to 19 children.
The first set of families received business funds, starter packs, and full educational scholarships for their children, marking the Foundation’s commitment to “empowering communities, one family at a time.”
With this initiative, the Foundation continues to inspire hope and create sustainable change in Delta State.
