About 30 market women operating in Ekpan and along Jakpa Road in Warri, Delta State, have received cash support of ₦500,000 each from the Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation to help strengthen and expand their small businesses, in a gesture aimed at boosting grassroots economic activities.
The empowerment formed part of activities marking the birthday celebration of the foundation’s founder, Mrs. Esther Matthew Tonlagha, who chose to dedicate the occasion to humanitarian outreach rather than personal festivities. The initiative focused on women whose daily trading activities sustain households and contribute to the local economy.
In addition to the support for market women, the foundation extended financial assistance to 200 sickle cell warriors, with each beneficiary receiving ₦100,000, bringing the total support to ₦20 million. The presentation took place at the Central Hospital, Warri, during a special program organized to celebrate and encourage children living with sickle cell disorder.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Tonlagha thanked God for life and the opportunity to give back, noting that celebrating with vulnerable members of society was deeply fulfilling for her. She encouraged the sickle cell warriors to remain strong in faith and to strictly adhere to medical advice, stressing that proper care and discipline are crucial to their wellbeing.
She explained that the foundation’s interventions are driven by a desire to create lasting impact, particularly at the grassroots, where small financial support can translate into meaningful improvements in livelihoods and health outcomes.
One of the beneficiaries, Onochie Dumebi Elvis, expressed appreciation to the EMT Foundation, describing the support as timely and impactful. He said the grant would serve as a strong foundation for his small-scale business, adding that the assistance would significantly boost his plans and confidence as a young entrepreneur.
The initiative highlights the growing role of private foundations in complementing public efforts to support small businesses and provide relief for individuals facing long-term health challenges in local communities.
