On June 11, 2024, Hope for Village Child Foundation (HVCF) organized a stakeholder meeting to enhance collaboration, build support, and ensure the inclusiveness, effectiveness, and sustainability of its Rickets Project
The event saw the participation of numerous key stakeholders, including Hon. Yakubu Umar Barde (former Member of the House of Representatives representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency), and representatives from local government and community organizations, among them are Hon. Salasi Nuhu Musa (Council Chairman Chikun LGA) ably represented by Hon. Joshua Umaru Kapio (Supervisory Counselor Health Chikun LGA), Hon. Ibrahim Akawu (Supervisory Counselor, Agric-Chikin LGA), Mr. Saidu Giwa (Dakachi-Sabon Garin Kufana), Alh. Idris Adamu (Sarkin Hausawa-Maraban Rido), Pst. Timothy M. Amande (C.A.N-Maraban Rido), Mr. Sani Abdullahi Aliyu (JNI Secretary Chikun LGA), and Mr. Auta A. Ganai (Village Head-Kudansa).
The meeting commenced with an opening prayer and the Nigerian national anthem, followed by participant introductions. A representative from the HVCF staff team presented a detailed history of the Foundation and the Rickets Project using a PowerPoint presentation, which included impactful before and after images of beneficiaries.
Running for over 20 years with support from Misereor, a German Catholic development aid organization, the Rickets Project has successfully treated over 600 beneficiaries through surgery and supported over 2000 with calcium supplements. The surgeries, which can cost upwards of N800,000 for one leg, are affordable for beneficiaries. Similarly, calcium supplements are provided at a subsidized rate, encouraging self-reliance and empowerment.
Additional services of the Rickets Project include food demonstrations and blood chemistry tests. Food demonstrations educate locals on preparing calcium-rich meals using accessible ingredients, while blood chemistry tests, conducted bi-annually, ensure effective calcium intake.
Stakeholders were informed about their roles and responsibilities, leading to fruitful deliberations and a generous financial pledge of N300,000 from Hon. Yakubu Umar Barde to support the distribution of 1000 packs of calcium supplements. His commitment to the cause was further solidified with a promise to explore additional support avenues with HVCF management.
The event concluded with testimonies from beneficiaries, a vote of thanks, a group photograph, and a tour of the HVCF health facility.
This is good, keep up the good work.