The COVID-19 pandemic left a devastating impact on vulnerable communities, especially in rural areas
RUDERF’s Rural Relief Project Makes a Lifesaving Impact in Rural Nigeria Amidst the COVID-19 Crisis
- by Ruderfngo
- December 26, 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic left a devastating impact on vulnerable communities, especially in rural areas
The Rural Relief Project, supported by LEAP Africa, DOW, and Citi, made a significant difference by reaching out to the most affected individuals, providing essential relief materials and much-needed support. Here are some touching stories of those who received help during this challenging time:
Mama Roseline: Overcoming Stigma with Compassion
Mama Roseline, an elderly woman living in a rural settlement near Sapele, has suffered from leprosy for many years. Her hands and feet are deformed from the disease, and she has been ostracized by her community, struggling to survive without any means of income. The stigma around her condition meant she was often left alone, uncared for, and unable to find work.
When our team arrived with relief materials, including food items and hygiene products, Mama Roseline was overwhelmed with emotion. It was a moment of immense gratitude for her—a ray of hope amid years of neglect. Her story highlights the importance of reaching out to those forgotten by society, providing not just physical support but also a sense of belonging.
Mr. and Mrs. Faka Stephen: Support for a Blind Couple
Mr. and Mrs. Faka Stephen, a married couple both blind from birth, reside in a slum settlement in the Sapele Local Government Area. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated their already challenging situation as they struggled to care for their four children.
Our team visited their home, delivering food supplies and essential items to ease their burden. The couple expressed deep appreciation for the support, particularly thanking our sponsors. Mr. Faka, touched by the gesture, promised to raise awareness in his community about the importance of following safety measures against the virus. This small act of kindness helped not only to alleviate their immediate needs but also to empower them as advocates for health and safety in their neighborhood.
Bose Eruewu: From Misconception to Empowerment
Bose Eruewu, a young, uneducated mother, turned to locally brewed gin as a supposed safeguard against the coronavirus—a myth she believed would protect her from the disease. Our team’s visit was timely, providing her with accurate information about COVID-19 and debunking the dangerous myths she had heard.
Upon realizing the harm she was causing herself, Bose made a commitment to stop drinking and follow the safety measures we shared with her. In addition to the relief materials provided, Bose’s transformation was inspiring—she became one of our community mobilizers, using her story to educate other women in her area about the virus and how to protect themselves.
Papa Charles Omojuba: Bringing Light to the Lonely
Papa Charles Omojuba, an elderly man living alone in a self-built wooden shack, had no one to care for him during the pandemic. When our team arrived, we found him in poor health, with no support system or means of survival. His face lit up when we provided him with food and other essentials.
He shared that he had been praying for help, and our visit felt like a blessing. His gratitude was palpable as he urged us to continue our good work. Stories like Papa Charles’s remind us of the power of small acts of kindness in restoring hope to those who feel abandoned.
Making a Difference Together
These heartwarming stories from the COVID-19 Rural Relief Project underscore the immense challenges faced by marginalized individuals during the pandemic and the life-changing impact of targeted relief efforts. Through the generous support of LEAP Africa, DOW, and Citi, we were able to bring hope and essential resources to those who needed them most.
Our journey does not end here. We invite you to join us in continuing this mission. Your support can help us reach more vulnerable individuals, providing them with the care and resources they need to rebuild their lives.
Join us to touch lives!