Chinedum Elekwachi
No fewer than 1000 persons in Anambra state on Thursday benefitted from the Fidelity Bank Plc in furtherance of its commitment to well-being of its host communities.
The beneficiaries, including the vulnerable and persons with disabilities drawn across the state smiled home with packs of food items.
Speaking during the Food Bank Distribution Event at St Patrick Church, Regional Bank Head for Awka, Dr. Nosa Orumwense said the gesture was part of the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of giving back to the society.
He listed items in the food bank to include garri, rice, beans, wheat, soup ingredients, beverages, milk and seasonings, among others.
He said, “The Fidelity Food Bank was launched in April 2023 as part of our commitment to the well-being of our host communities.
Over 200,000 food packs distributed
He said, “Since its inception, we have distributed over 200,000 food packs across Nigeria’s geo-political zones, helping to alleviate the effects of poverty and malnutrition.
“We remain steadfast in executing CSR initiatives like this as we pursue our mandate to help individuals to grow, inspire businesses to thrive, and empower economies to prosper.
“We are delighted to be in Anambra State today to extend the coverage of this impactful initiative.
“It is our belief that this outreach will help bring joy and support to our beneficiaries.
In his remarks, Catholic Bishop of Awka, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor appreciated the bank for the benevolence.
Setting the pace
He called on government and other spirited individuals to emulate the gesture, especially in the area of job creation for the masses so they could cater for themselves.
“This kind of benevolence has been a ritual in this Diocese,” he said.
“We distribute food items to members of the society every month and every Easter. We call it “Easter with the poor.”
“I know there’s nothing given to the people that will be enough to meet their needs. That’s why we call this relief items.”
Chairman, Awka South local government area, Prince Chinedu Okafor thanked Fidelity Bank for the gesture.
He pledged his administration commitment to catering for the needs of the people.
Director, Justice Development Peace Caritas (JDPC), Awka Diocese, Rev Father Levi Ukor said, “we’re excited partnering with Fidelity Bank. This is the first time we’re doing this kind of thing here.
“I’m so happy because we are doing this for these ones out of so many people suffering from hunger.
For the bank to decide to share foodstuffs to these crowd shows they’re concerned for them.
“We pray for sustenance especially as it has to do with the poor and vulnerable.
“Other banks and spirited individuals should emulate this gesture in order to ameliorate the suffering of the people.
“A lot of people are dying of hunger because they cannot afford to eat three times a day.
Many are sick out there and they don’t have money to visit hospitals,” he regretted.
