Fidelity Bank Plc on Friday provided food support to over 1,000 residents in Anambra State through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Food Bank initiative.

The outreach held at the St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Awka, brought together the elderly, low-income earners, widows and the vulnerable from various communities who received essential food items.

Each food pack contained staples such as garri, rice, beans, wheat, soup ingredients, beverages, milk, and seasonings, among others.

Speaking at the event, Regional Bank Head for Awka, Dr Nosa Orumwense, noted that the initiative was part of the bank’s mission to combat hunger and improve the living conditions in its host community.

Mr Orumwense said the food bank initiative, inaugurated in April 2023, had already distributed over 200,000 food packs across Nigeria.

He said, “As a socially responsible organisation, we do not operate in isolation. We support both the government and our host communities through our CSR initiatives to provide succour to the less privileged. This initiative is aimed at alleviating poverty and ameliorate the current economic hardship in the society.’’

Also speaking, Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, identified food and shelter as essentials of life.

Mr Ezeokafor appreciated Fidelity Bank for providing food palliative to the needy in society.

“I know that there is nothing given to the people that will be enough to meet their needs. Therefore, I urge governments to improve the economy and make life better for Nigerians. I also call on other corporate bodies and spirited individuals to emulate Fidelity Bank in reaching out to the poor in the society,” he said.

In his remarks, Chairman, Awka South Local Government, Chinedu Okafor, appreciated the bank for supporting government’s efforts by catering for the needs of the less privileged.

Also, Coordinator, Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC), Awka Diocese, Rev Father Levi Uko, said, “We are excited partnering with Fidelity Bank because there are many people suffering from hunger. We pray this relationship is sustained, especially as it has to do with the poor and vulnerable around us.”

One of the beneficiaries, Adanma Mbah, expressed gratitude for the gesture, describing it as timely and impactful.

Mrs Mbah said, “This foodstuff will go a long way in supporting my family.’’

(NAN)