Old Port Harcourt City Association Of Friends Reaffirms Support For O. B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation

The Old Port Harcourt City Association of Friends has reiterated its readiness to collaborate with the O. B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation during a courtesy visit to the Foundation’s Port Harcourt office on July 6, 2023.

President of the socio-cultural group, Mr. I. K. Thomas Amadi, who made presentation of gifts to the less privileged, explained that the association chose to donate clothes and shoes to the Foundation because of its proven track record of making meaningful impact at the grassroots.

Amadi explained that the group was also passionate about making a difference in the lives of the less privileged and felt honoured to partner with the Foundation to do so.

He said, “Our journey began with a simple idea: to extend a helping hand to those in need. As a group, we were determined to make a difference in the lives of the less fortunate and wholeheartedly embraced this cause.

“Today, as we present this collection of clothing and shoes, we do so with a profound sense of purpose and a deep understanding of the impact it will have on individuals and families within our community.”

Amadi, who disclosed that the body was established in 2013 and comprised ‘the real Port Harcourt boys and girls’, said it was impressed and motivated by the Foundation’s significant strides.

“We saw their philanthropic gestures. They have the capacity, and we felt we should partner with them,” he said.

The President thanked the Foundation’s Chair, Dr Seinye O.B. Lulu-Briggs, for consistently assisting the needy across Nigeria, stating, “Your tireless dedication to uplifting the lives of those facing adversity has been a beacon of hope for us. Your collaboration and partnership have made this donation possible, and we are truly grateful.”

Responding, Dr Seinye Lulu-Briggs said she was humbled and excited by the Old Port Harcourt City Association of Friends’ generosity. She said that the Foundation would include the clothes and shoes in care packages it donates to the vulnerable and underserved.

Noting that as a “Port Harcourt girl”, Lulu-Briggs said she remains a committed member of the group.

Going down memory lane she said, “I grew up in a Port Harcourt where community members were close and cared for one another. So, I am not surprised that the “love thy neighbour” spirit which is part of our DNA is being rekindled by this association which was set up by one of us. I am delighted that the association has decided to partner with us. The secret to our success is our belief in the power of partnerships. Indeed, we have a group of dedicated volunteers who boost our operations. So, I welcome the association’s willingness to work with us, to share the vast experience and varied skills of our membership.

“Going forward, we will involve you in all our programming. And I pray God to strengthen you, so that you will not get tired of working with.”

Dr. Seinye Lulu-Briggs gave some examples of some of the initiatives that could benefit from the association’s kind gesture.

She said, “Since 2001, our flagship “Care for Life Program” has been ‘adopting’ and taking care of vulnerable elders in Rivers State for life. I have no doubt that you can support our work in this area in so many ways.

“Our education and scholarships work improve access and promotes achievement for those whose families cannot afford to pay their fees. Our 2023 Law School Students Scholarships Award ceremony will take place on July 25, 2023. We will present 63 scholarships, including a brand-new laptop and cash, to law graduates from Rivers State origin who are proceeding to the Nigerian Law School. I see the association support us with this annual event right away.

“Our 5-day Medical Missions are held quarterly. We take free medical services; including surgeries, dental and eye care to the doorstep of vulnerable communities in the Niger Delta. The next one will be at Degema Prisons, by the grace of God. We benefit greatly from the input of volunteers during our medical missions and very much look forward to some of your members participation.

“We also provide monthly stipends to vulnerable households in Rivers State. They will also benefit from your donation.

“So, you can see that your generous gifts will get to the intended beneficiaries across our programs. We are pleased that some of your members will be there to witness firsthand and share in the joy that comes from that Port Harcourt “spirit of care” which is what both of our organizations are committed to. Thank you very much.”