The Lady Atinuke Oyindamola Memorial Home for Special Needs, a non-governmental organisation, has appealed to the Federal Government, states, local governments and philanthropists for funds to cater for its 41 residents.
Its Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Elsie Akerele, made the appeal at a news conference to herald its 2026 Awareness Month in Lagos.
Akerele said feeding the children, providing regular medication and paying staff salaries were the major challenges facing the home.
According to her, most of the residents live with conditions including Down Syndrome, Autism, Epilepsy and Cerebral Palsy, among others.
“Feeding 41 residents every day is a task that never ends.
“Second, almost all of our residents are on regular medication. Getting their drugs on time and in full is a daily headache.
“It is like knowing exactly what to do, but not having the equipment needed to do the work.
“Third, there is the responsibility of paying the salaries of our staff, who give their time, energy, and love to these children and adults.
“These are not complaints. They are the plain facts of what it takes to keep the doors of this Home open, and we are not ashamed to say that we need help,” she said.
She said the home had 27 staff members and 13 dedicated volunteers on its payroll, describing the work as demanding but fulfilling.
“I will be honest with you: taking up this ministry has been demanding, yet deeply fulfilling and interesting.
“It has also been a source of constant concern, and often of sleepless nights.”
Akerele listed areas where support was needed to include food and nutritional supplies, drugs and medical support, staff welfare and salaries, as well as equipment and materials for rehabilitation and therapy.
She thanked organisations supporting the home, including the David Oyedepo Foundation for its monthly food supplies, as well as Strong Pack Ltd., Beloxxi Industries Ltd., Guinness Nigeria Plc and Reliance Chemical Products Ltd.
“Your kindness has put food on our tables, and we pray that God will reward you abundantly.
“We also thank every individual, church, and well-wisher who has stood with us over the years.”
On activities for the month, Akerele said a charity walk would hold on Saturday, Nov. 7, around the Alaba International Market area in Ojo Local Government Area to sensitise the public on persons with special needs.
She said a public seminar would hold on Thursday, Nov. 12, at the Ola-Oki Medical Centre, along Badagry Expressway, Ibereko, to enlighten the public on how to understand, support and include special children.
According to her, the residents will on Nov. 19 visit Crown City along Lusada Expressway, while on Nov. 21 they will display their talents and culture. (NAN)
