The project “For me, it means a lot” was carried out in Tungan-Gero, a very poor rural area in Nigeria. It aimed to improve the nutrition and well-being of disadvantaged children or families “displaced” by insecurity in the country, who attend Saint Mary Magdalena School.

Upon receipt of the funds, Sr. Benedicta and the project team proceeded to purchase the necessary food items. The products were transported, repackaged, and stored properly before being used for the daily preparation of meals for the children. Community support was provided for the management of the products, particularly for repackaging and packaging. At this stage, the project is still ongoing.

The human impact of the project is particularly visible for Rifkatu, a six-year-old girl attending kindergarten. 
“Before the food program began, Rifkatu suffered from fatigue, headaches, and difficulty concentrating due to lack of food. Since regular meals were introduced at school, her health, energy levels, and attention span in class have improved significantly: the benefits of the project on children's lives are very real!” Sr. Benedicta

Overall, the program has improved children's nutrition, health, and concentration at school. It has strengthened their motivation to attend school, encouraged their participation in class, contributed to better self-esteem, and created more balanced social relationships.

“Currently, 68 boarding children receive three meals a day, while approximately 84 disadvantaged day students receive one meal a day. These numbers could increase with new enrollments in the coming school year.” Sr. Benedicta

Financially, all funds were used in accordance with the planned budget, mainly for the purchase of basic foodstuffs. A drop in food prices even made it possible to purchase larger quantities than initially planned. 

The project is not yet self-sufficient. To ensure its sustainability, Sr. Benedicta and the project team plan to develop gardening and school farming activities, as well as to solicit contributions in kind from parents, particularly during harvest periods. 

“The students, their families, and teachers express their deep gratitude for this support, which has helped to create a healthier, more stable learning environment that is more conducive to academic success and, therefore, to the children's future.” Sr. Benedicta