Founder of the Divine Favoured Jesus Bride Foundation, Lady Ifoma Jasper Umenweze, popularly known as Ify-Jasper, has appealed for urgent support from government, churches, and well-meaning Nigerians to alleviate the hardship faced by widows across Ebonyi State and beyond.
Addressing journalists in Abakaliki on Wednesday, Ify-Jasper disclosed that her foundation is currently catering for more than 1,000 widows, whom she prefers to call “Jesus’ Brides” to give them a sense of dignity and belonging.
She narrated the ordeal of one of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Ifoma Elias, a blind widow from Ngbo in Ohaukwu Local Government Area, who was recently chased out of an uncompleted building with her three children after their belongings were burnt.
According to her, the family now lives in another abandoned building under harsh conditions.
“I was shocked when I saw them tattered and hungry. They told me they had slept in the bush after being chased out. I had to feed them first before finding a temporary shelter,” she said.
The philanthropist explained that while the foundation provides food, clothing, skill training, and small-scale business support, the burden is becoming overwhelming.
She called for collaboration to enable the widows access education support for their children, better housing, and sustainable livelihoods.
“Our hands cannot carry this alone. Whenever I see a widow suffering, I lose sleep. I am begging for support because the needs are growing daily,” she said.
Ify-Jasper further noted that her foundation which has elapsed over two decades, organizes annual gatherings where widows come together to share meals, receive clothing, and find encouragement.
The woman who hails from Enugu but currently a resident of Ebonyi emphasized that the initiative is not limited to her residential state.
“Our foundation has no boundary. Wherever we see a widow in distress, we try to help within our capacity,” she said.
She urged philanthropists and the public to visit the foundation’s office at No. 14 Waterworks Road, Abakaliki, to render assistance.
