The Women and Children Charity Organisation (WACCA) marked this year's International Children's Day with acts of kindness and support for vulnerable children in Enugu State, bringing relief to orphans and sick children through donations and financial assistance.
Led by its Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Barr. Maudline C. Nwakuche, the organisation visited the Enugu State Government-owned orphanage home at FSP Centre and the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital (ESUTH), Parklane, where it donated assorted items and provided financial support to children receiving medical treatment.
Speaking during the outreach, Nwakuche said the initiative was aimed at making the day memorable for children who might otherwise have no reason to celebrate.
"Some of these children are orphans, while others are battling serious illnesses. We decided to visit them and give them support so they can feel happy and included. These children are the future leaders of our society," she said.
She noted that the organisation was particularly moved by the plight of children receiving treatment at ESUTH, many of whose families struggle to pay hospital bills and purchase prescribed medications.
"We have visited Parklane Hospital before, and during one of those visits, some parents told us they could not offset their bills or buy drugs for their children. That was what motivated us to come back and support them," she explained.
As part of the intervention, WACCA donated N500,000 to assist families in paying medical bills, purchasing drugs and meeting other urgent healthcare needs.
Nwakuche also urged wealthy individuals and organisations to embrace the spirit of giving and support vulnerable members of society.
"God did not give us wealth to spend only on ourselves. We should remember those who are suffering around us. If we all show love and compassion to our neighbours, the world will become a better place," she added.
At the FSP Centre, children expressed joy and gratitude after receiving the donated items, offering prayers for the founder and members of the organisation.
Executive Secretary of the Enugu State Management Board for the Protection of State-Owned Homes, Barr. Uzoamaka Okeji, commended WACCA for its generosity.
"I am very happy to see this organisation here today. Their visit has made this day memorable for these vulnerable children. It gives them a sense of belonging and reminds them that they are loved and valued," Okeji said.
Some beneficiaries at ESUTH also expressed appreciation for the assistance.
Mrs. Ezeora Mercy, whose daughter, Princess, has been hospitalised for three weeks with a neck swelling, said the family had exhausted its resources on treatment.
"We have spent over N500,000 already, and we were told she needs a biopsy. We didn't know where the money would come from. I am overwhelmed by this support and deeply grateful," she said.
Another beneficiary, Mrs. Ogbu Blessing, whose son has been battling recurrent convulsions since January, thanked the organisation for the intervention.
"I am grateful for any amount I receive. My son cannot walk or talk, and this support means a lot to us," she said.
Similarly, Mrs. Igwe Chinyelugo described the assistance as an answered prayer.
"We depend only on God. I never expected people would come to help us. My child is preparing for surgery, and this support has given us hope. May God continue to bless them," she said.
The outreach formed part of WACCA's commitment to supporting vulnerable women and children and promoting compassion and social inclusion across communities.
