The International Women’s Society (IWS) has extended a helping hand to 100 expectant and nursing mothers at the Maternal and Child Care Centre (MCC) in Lagos, distributing essential maternity and baby-care items to support them through pregnancy and early motherhood.
Support for Mothers Amid Economic Hardship
Speaking during the outreach, Dr Janet Adetu, Chairperson of the Social Services Subcommittee of the IWS, explained that the initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on mothers during these challenging economic times. Beneficiaries received bags filled with diapers, baby-care products, feeding accessories, breast pads, disposable panties, sanitary towels, food items, clothing, and other household necessities.
Adetu noted that the programme aligns with the society’s long-standing mission of supporting vulnerable women and children, a commitment that has been upheld since its establishment in 1957. “We launched the Bundle of Joy initiative to put smiles on the faces of mothers and assist them on their motherhood journey. The economy is tough, and many families need support. We felt this was a meaningful way to help,” she said.
Annual Programme and Expansion Plans
The outreach, which cost several millions of naira, is expected to become an annual event. Plans are underway to extend it to other hospitals and rural communities across Nigeria. Adetu revealed that the concept was inspired by maternity support packages provided to new mothers in other countries, and she hopes similar interventions will be adopted more broadly to encourage maternal healthcare in Nigeria.
Commendation from MCC Leadership
The Medical Director and Chief Executive Officer of MCC, Dr Femi Aletan, commended the IWS for the donation. He described the gesture as laudable, stating that the items would bring relief and happiness to the beneficiaries. Aletan also praised the quality and quantity of the items, which reflect the society’s dedication to supporting vulnerable mothers and families.
He expressed gratitude to First Bank of Nigeria for supporting the initiative and urged other non-governmental organisations, corporate bodies, and well-meaning individuals to emulate the IWS in giving back to society.
