In a significant display of community support, a Lagos-based church organized a major giveaway event, providing essential supplies to hundreds of local residents free of charge.
Millions in Aid Distributed at Church Premises
The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Prosperity Assembly in Okeafa, Isolo, Lagos, held the second edition of its "Jesus Market" initiative on Sunday. The community outreach program saw the distribution of free food packages and household items to families from both the congregation and the surrounding neighbourhood.
The event took place directly at the church premises, drawing a large crowd. Each package contained staple food items crucial to Nigerian households, including rice, beans, and garri. Church officials confirmed that the total value of resources assembled for this edition ran into millions of naira.
Focus on Christ's Love Through Free Giving
Explaining the motivation behind the outreach, the resident pastor, Bisi Folahan, highlighted a shift from the first edition. "This particular edition focuses on the love of Christ," Pastor Folahan stated. He noted that while the initial event sold items at heavily subsidized prices, this iteration was primarily about free distribution.
"Jesus came as a gift to the world, and if He is a gift, then we should also give gifts to people freely," he added, framing the initiative as a practical expression of faith. The pastor credited the success of the outreach to support from corporate organisations, foundations, and individual members of the church who donated the items.
Plans for Expansion and Sustainability
Despite the current economic challenges facing the country, church leadership is committed to sustaining and even growing the project. Pastor Folahan expressed confidence that "for every project of God, provision will always be made." He revealed plans to hold the Jesus Market twice every year, relying on continued divine grace and external support.
Looking ahead, the church intends to broaden the scope of future editions. Proposed expansions include adding a medical outreach component, offering scholarships, and implementing other targeted social interventions to benefit the community further.
Open to All: Putting Smiles on Faces
Pastor Mercy Oloworoporoku, who oversees the church's welfare activities, emphasized the inclusive nature of the program. "We welcome people from the community; our goal is to put smiles on as many faces as possible," she said. This sentiment was echoed by Assistant Pastor Seun Folahan of Area 12, who connected the act of giving to the festive season's spirit.
On the ground, Mrs Faith Okoduwa-Ilembiluan, Head of the Welfare Department, provided concrete figures, confirming that 120 specially prepared Christmas food boxes were distributed to families. Additionally, extra food items supplied by a partnering non-governmental organisation were given to members of the public.
One of the beneficiaries, Ms Victoria Ernest, praised the initiative's timeliness. "The Jesus Market has been amazing with the extension of low-cost food items," she shared. Organizers have assured that subsequent editions will be expanded to cater to people both within and outside the immediate community, aiming for a wider impact.
