Back-to-School Outreach at Bethel Baptist Church, Etoudi (August 26–27, 2023)
As part of our commitment to building peaceful and empowered communities through inclusive development initiatives, Sustaining Peace Foundation (SPF) carried out a comprehensive Back-to-School Outreach program on August 26th and 27th, 2023 at Bethel Baptist Church, Etoudi.
This outreach specifically targeted orphans and widows, two vulnerable groups often left behind in social and educational planning. The two-day event was a convergence of healthcare, skill-building, and educational empowerment.
Medical Consultations and Support
We provided free medical consultations for a total of 133 individuals, including:
- 96 orphans, most of whom are school-aged children preparing for the new academic session.
- 37 widows, many of whom are caretakers of the children or beneficiaries of our previous empowerment programs.
Skills Training and Economic Empowerment for Widows
Recognizing the need for sustainable livelihoods, we organized a practical skills training and exhibition session for widows on the production of liquid soap and Javel (a local disinfectant/bleach). This hands-on workshop equipped participants with low-capital, income-generating skills that can be immediately applied to support themselves and their families.
Career Orientation for Orphans
A vital highlight of the outreach was the career orientation session designed for the orphans. Many of these children face uncertain futures, and so SPF facilitated interactive discussions led by volunteers and professionals from various fields. These sessions were aimed at:
- Inspiring ambition and purpose
- Exposing the children to different career paths
- Encouraging positive life choices through mentoring and storytelling
