One fateful morning in February 2021, as I rushed to catch an early flight to Abuja, my path intersected with a heartbreaking reality. Along the Ikeja Underbridge axis, I spotted a small pregnant girl desperately seeking shelter after a heavy downpour. In that moment, I was overcome with shock, pain, and an overwhelming sense of responsibility.
The sight of homeless children roaming the streets, begging for food in Lagos, and seeking refuge under bridges is unfortunately not uncommon. This dire and unhealthy lifestyle makes them susceptible to joining gangs, succumbing to substance abuse, and engaging in criminal activities. It was on that morning, in the midst of my own hectic schedule, that I realised I couldn’t turn a blind eye any longer. I knew I had to take action.
In December 2022, fueled by a deep sense of compassion and determination, I joined forces with some close friends to launch a cause I passionately named “Feed a Kid, Secure the Future.” For far too long, I had harboured the intention to make a difference, but procrastination had held me back. However, the spirit of Christmas, a time of love and giving, served as a poignant reminder that these homeless children, the very future of our nation, would be left uncared for and forgotten.
I understood that these young souls, who had never experienced love and care, had hearts as tough as stone. So, I resolved to start with the simplest yet most profound act: showing them love and care during this festive season. It was the first step towards building something meaningful and staying committed to making a lasting impact.
This encounter ignited a fire within me, compelling me to establish a foundation with a powerful purpose: to unlock the untapped potential of young people in unserved and underserved communities. Through education, empowerment, and community service, we strive to build brighter futures, empower entire communities, and ignite a transformative change that will reverberate for generations to come. For support and further Enquiry please reach out via equiries@thetolulopeaina.com
