Foundation honours women with outreach
To celebrate International Women’s Day, Gbonse Foundation for Economic Development, led by Chief Executive, Helen Olaniyan, organised a medical outreach to support and appreciate women’s contributions to society. The outreach
To celebrate International Women’s Day, Gbonse Foundation for Economic Development, led by Chief Executive, Helen Olaniyan, organised a medical outreach to support and appreciate women’s contributions to society.
The outreach was held at the foundation’s office at KM2 LASU–Ojo Express Road, Odo-Eran Bus Stop, Igando, Lagos. It attracted women from the community who benefited from free healthcare services.
Participants received medical screening, blood pressure checks, blood sugar testing, basic consultations, health education, lifestyle guidance, and referrals for further medical care.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Olaniyan, said the organisation is a community-based initiative committed to supporting individuals and families, especially those with limited resources through economic empowerment, improved healthcare access, and social support programmes.
She noted that the foundation’s goal is to help families improve their living conditions and reduce poverty. According to her, the foundation achieves this by supporting small businesses, organising free medical check-ups, and implementing support programmes that address needs of vulnerable groups.
Mrs. Olaniyan added that the organisation works with churches, community leaders, and volunteers to ensure its services reach everyone. Through the partnerships, the foundation aims to touch lives, inspire hope, and help families become stronger and healthier.
She noted that the outreach was significant as it coincided with International Women’s Day, a day recognising the strength, resilience, and contributions of women to families, communities, and society.
“Women are often caregivers and backbone of our homes, as well as key drivers of economic and social development,” she said. “However, many women and families face challenges in accessing basic healthcare and financial opportunities.”
Mrs. Olaniyan added that empowering women also means ensuring they have access to quality healthcare, financial support, and opportunities for economic independence. She explained that when women are healthy and empowered, families become stronger, communities become healthier, and society progresses.
“Our organization remains committed to improving the lives of underserved individuals through financial empowerment, microfinance initiatives, social support, and accessible healthcare services. Today’s outreach is part of our mission to ensure that everyone, especially those who may not have regular access to medical care, can receive basic health checks, medical advice, and guidance to prevent illness and promote healthy living,” she said.
One of the beneficiaries, Funmi Okanlawon, described the programme as highly beneficial. She explained that the health officials advised her to pay closer attention to her diet due to her blood sugar level.
“The doctors told me my sugar level is still within a good range, but I need to be more careful about the foods I eat and make sure I exercise regularly so that I can sweat,” she said, adding that her other test results, including blood pressure, were satisfactory.
Funmi expressed gratitude to the organizers, noting that many people rarely have the opportunity to undergo medical check-ups. She said some individuals were even encouraged by others to attend the programme, and the health screening helped them become more aware of their health conditions.
Another beneficiary, Madam Nkechi, also appreciated the foundation’s support. She revealed that she has previously received financial assistance from the organization to support her business and was grateful to benefit from the free medical check-up during the outreach.
“I have been receiving financial support from this foundation to help my business grow, and today I was also able to get medical attention and medication. I truly appreciate the organizers,” she said.
A medical practitioner who participated in the outreach, Dr. Bamidele Oni, stressed the importance of regular health check-ups. According to him, many diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and certain cancers may not show symptoms in their early stages.
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He explained that some illnesses only become noticeable when complications have already developed. This, he said, is why routine medical examinations are essential.
Dr. Oni also noted that certain diseases may be hereditary, meaning they run in families. Without regular screening, individuals may not know they are at risk.
He warned that untreated conditions like high blood pressure can lead to serious complications including stroke, blindness, kidney failure, and damage to other vital organs.
To prevent such outcomes, he encouraged people to prioritize early diagnosis, routine medical check-ups, proper medication when prescribed, and healthy lifestyle practices.
The medical outreach concluded with many beneficiaries expressing appreciation to the Gbonse Foundation for its continued efforts to promote community health, economic empowerment, and social support, particularly for women and underserved members of society.
