By Regina Igwebuike
The Ezinne Josephine Elderly Care and Support (EJECS) Foundation, Inc., celebrated no fewer than 120 Octogenarians and above, putting smiles on their faces as they went home each with 10kg bag of rice and condiments.
The event took place at the CEO/Founder’s Residence in Amawbia, Awka South LGA on April 11.
Addressing the group, the Founder, Prof. (Mrs) Chinedu Christie Okoye (nee Nnamah), said that the Foundation began in 2013 after she got inspired by Prophet TB Joshua’s WHERE ARE YOUR ELDERLY ONES? Program in Lagos. From then, she began to cater to the needs of her Late mother’s friends, namely: Late Mrs. Nwogbo (Enuoji), Late Mrs. Agnes Ogbonna (Ngene), Late Mrs. Margaret Nwafor (Adabebe), Late Asa Aronu (Umueze), Late Mrs. Veronica Nwokolo (Nimo) and Late Mr. Amaechi Dike (Enugwu-Ukwu).
Prof. Okoye provided warm clothing, hot water bottles, food, and monthly financial support for these elderly once for two years till 2015 when her mother demised.
In 2016, she incorporated EZINNE JOSEPHINE ELDERLY CARE AND SUPPORT (EJECS) Foundation to extend her tender, loving care to other elderlies.
According to Prof. Okoye, EJECS Foundation expressly ministers to people 80 years and above who are seriously in need of help. Beneficiaries must reside in Amawbia, but need not be indigenes of Amawbia. To receive assistance (food, clothing or funds), beneficiary must be domiciled in Amawbia three months prior to any outreach. Two to three outreaches are planned yearly – Easter, summer and/or Christmas.
She further explained that beneficiaries visiting their children outside Amawbia are excluded from receiving items at a given outreach program.
“Though founded purely for the elderly, in 2022, EJECS went outside its orbit to help five Amawbia youth to establish businesses of their choices. In 2025, EJECS bought an electric sewing foot machine for a young female from Ngene, Amawbia.”
The CEO noted that so far, EJECS Foundation outreaches are privately funded. Humanitarian groups and individuals are encouraged to support and sponsor EJECS programs.
“EJECS Foundation is run by a four-member Board of Directors assisted by five on-ground coordinators. The Board of Directors is grateful to individuals and groups such as the women group Amawbia.”
She, then, commended the attendees and urged them to live healthy lifestyle for longevity.
Delivering a health talk, Mrs Queeneth Omego Okoli and Miss Miracle Madubueze both from Primary Healthcare Centre Nkwelle-Ezunaka,
talked about Diabetes mellitus, a condition with types like Type 1 and non-insulin dependent diabetes (Type C), often linked to our diet, emphasizing that as seniors, eating balanced meals is key.
They explained that uncontrolled diabetes can lead to severe issues: heart problems, eye damage, vein complications, and even death, urging them to manage it by exercising regularly, eating wisely, and getting regular check-ups. “Avoid self-medicating; instead, follow doctor’s advice”.
Speaking on Hypertension, or high blood pressure, they said that it happens when blood flow is disrupted. Old age, too much salt, and stress can cause it, urging them to manage it by resting, reducing salt, and living healthy. “Men, quit alcohol, tobacco, and cigarettes, drink water and live healthier”.
The Chief Coordinator of EJECS Foundation, Pst (Engr) Sam Ojeleke, in a separate interview couldn’t help but gush about the wonderful NGO. “Under the leadership of Prof. Christie Chinedu Okoye, the CEO, the foundation has been a blessing to the elderly in Amawbia and beyond.
Prof. Okoye’s heart for the elderly is truly remarkable; she goes above and beyond to ensure they’re cared for, distributing food items during Easter and Christmas, and even sending support remotely.
“Her passion for giving is contagious, and it’s clear that the main purpose of EJECS Foundation is to uplift the elderly. Her selfless acts have earned her admiration from far and wide, and we’re grateful for her tireless efforts”.
As she continues to spread joy, he prayed that God grants her long healthy life to reap the fruit of her labour.
The event also featured prayer sessions, tea break, dance and other entertaining packages.
Eziokwubundu Women group led by their Woman Leader, Mrs Chinyere Anagor thanked the benefactress for her philanthropy and humanitarian support, especially to the elderly, praying that God will continue to bless and prosper her.
Pst Ekene Nwufo and Bro Ifeanyi Nwoye, Vice Chairman and Secretary of Umuaja Kindred were also in attendance to support Prof. Okoye.
Regina is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
