By Progress Godfrey, Abuja

No fewer than 600 residents in Waru community, Apo, Abuja, have received education support and relief materials in an outreach programme by the Jessie Eddy Foundation in partnership with L2D International and others.

The intervention, held at Waru Primary School, targeted children, women and small business owners, with a mix of school support, cash grants and household relief items aimed at easing economic pressure on vulnerable families.

Speaking on the impact of the programme, founder of the Foundation, Jesse Eddy said the initiative was designed to provide immediate assistance to disadvantaged households while creating long-term opportunities for women and children through educational interventions and economic empowerment.

As part of the education component, the foundation paid school fees for 50 children and covered examination fees for another 50 students preparing for Junior and Senior WAEC, enabling them to remain in school.

Beneficiaries also received learning materials including exercise books, writing tools and basic educational supplies to support classroom activities.

Women were not left out, as five beneficiaries received business grants to support their enterprises, while others got cash support through engagement activities designed to provide immediate financial relief.

A 15-year-old fashion designer was awarded a ₦500,000 grant by one of the partners in recognition of her work producing costumes for children’s performances, while a programme coordinator received ₦200,000 for her role in mentoring young talents.

Food and personal care items were distributed to hundreds of households, including rice, noodles, oil, toiletries and other basic supplies to cushion living costs.

The organisers said the outreach was part of efforts to reduce barriers to education and provide economic support, while calling for broader collaboration to expand assistance to more vulnerable communities.