In a heartfelt demonstration of compassion, Johanah Napoleon, known as “Ms. Jay,” recently brought aid and encouragement to families displaced by the recent Boko Haram attacks on Rann, a town in Borno state, northeast Nigeria.

As a U.S.-based wellness and healthcare professional, Johanah visited internally displaced persons (IDP) camps in Abuja, where she and her team provided essential supplies through her organization, the Johanah Napoleon Foundation (JNF).

During her visit, the Foundation distributed food, clothing, and school supplies to the displaced families. Donations included rice, palm oil, noodles, milk, toilet rolls, and salt, while children received schoolbooks and backpacks. Expressing her commitment to assisting displaced persons and the underprivileged, Johanah shared, “Giving to the less privileged brings me the greatest joy. It’s heartwarming to see the smiles on their faces as they receive these gifts. I want to help those in need whenever and wherever I can. Though I was raised in the U.S, my Haitian heritage and my friendships with many Nigerians make these places dear to my heart.”

The January 28, 2019, attack on Rann left at least 60 people dead and many more displaced, as Boko Haram insurgents, arriving on motorcycles, set homes ablaze and pursued fleeing residents. Amnesty International confirmed the tragic toll of lives lost and highlighted how the sudden withdrawal of Nigerian Army troops left civilians vulnerable to the brutal assault.

For Johanah, helping families in need is both a mission and a reflection of her personal journey. “The joy I feel grows each time I share with others,” she said. “I promised myself that, whenever possible, I would give back. Philanthropy is about paying it forward, making a difference however I can.”

Johanah has also contributed to relief efforts in her native Haiti, where she has aided families affected by natural disasters and violence. Through JNF, she calls on the private sector to support displaced communities affected by conflicts and crises around the world, from Sudan to Gaza, Congo, and Haiti, especially in times of inflation and economic uncertainty. “In these challenging times, it’s crucial for corporations and individuals to step up and fill the gaps where governments and the UN fall short,” she urged.

Johanah’s dedication to aiding displaced families and vulnerable communities is a testament to her background in healthcare and wellness, underscoring her commitment to healing and uplifting others, even across borders.