Relief and smiles filled the Agidingbi community in Lagos as families received food support through the annual Food Drive organised by Dansol High School.
The outreach, held at the Dansol School premises, brought together volunteers, school officials, parents and residents, all united by a simple goal: to help families struggling with rising food costs.
Now in its second year, the Food Drive reflects the school’s growing focus on compassion. While Dansol High School has carried out Christmas charity activities for over 20 years, the school decided last year to channel its efforts directly towards vulnerable families connected to the school, following increasing economic hardship.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Director, Mrs Olanitori Omotara, explained that the initiative was born out of concern for families finding it hard to cope.
“We used to focus mainly on fun activities during Christmas,” she said. “But we realised many families needed food, not festivities. Compassion had to come first.”
This year, over 200 beneficiaries, including parents, received food items. Mrs Omotara thanked parents and partner organisations for their support, noting that the outreach would not have been possible without collective effort.
A touching part of the programme was the role played by students. They prayed with beneficiaries, shared encouraging words and spread the message of Christmas.
“Seeing our students show love and empathy reminds us why this matters,” Mrs Omotara said.
Also speaking, the Director of Schools, Mrs Oladosu Tsola, described the outreach as a reflection of Christian values.
“Christmas is about giving,” she said. “In a difficult time like this, supporting others is the true meaning of the season.”
She praised the students for their generosity, noting that many donated food items and money willingly.
Food items distributed included rice, beans, garri, pasta, cooking oil and other essentials. Volunteers ensured the exercise was orderly and transparent.
For volunteer Tunde Osho, the experience left a lasting impression.
“When you listen to people’s stories, you realise how serious the struggle is. Helping them feels meaningful,” he said.
Beneficiaries also expressed appreciation. Mrs Kafayat Ogunlana, a mother of four, said the support came at the right time.
“Food prices are high, but our income is the same. This has really helped us,” she said.
Organisers say the Food Drive will continue to grow.
“This is just a start,” Mrs Omotara said. “We want to reach more families and spread hope.”
As the event ended, families left not just with food items, but with renewed encouragement that kindness and compassion still exist, even in hard times.
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