Christmas Widows Outreach Brings Hope to Over 1,500 Widows in Lagos

Each December, the Life Support Foundation — co-founded and convened by Rev. Mrs. (Dr.) Edith Mpamaugo — opens its doors to the widows of Lagos for a day set apart entirely for them. This year, more than 1,500 women arrived from across the city: some by bus, some on foot, some helped in by younger hands. They came dressed in their best, because they knew they were expected, and they knew they would be honored. That is no small thing for a woman who has lost her husband and, too often, the dignity that can go with a household.

The day began with praise and prayer, and then came the things that meet immediate needs: a warm meal, free medical screening, and financial gifts distributed by the foundation's team of volunteers. But those who serve at the outreach will tell you that the most important thing that happens is not the food or the money. It is the moment when a woman who has spent months feeling invisible looks around a room full of people who came specifically to see her — and feels seen. Rev. Mrs. Edith moved among the women, greeting them by name where she knew them, taking the hands of those she was meeting for the first time.

Rev. Isaac led a brief time of Scripture and prayer that brought many in the room to tears — not the tears of grief, but of release. "The Lord has not forgotten you," he told them simply. "You are not alone before Him. He is your strength and your portion." Several women testified afterward that those words had given them something to carry through the coming year. The Life Support Foundation continues to serve Lagos widows year-round. Those who feel led to support this work are warmly encouraged to reach out through the Contact page.