Emma Sunday, Port Harcourt
In a bit to cushion the effect of the economic hardship on it’s members, Gateway international Church, has empowered over 50 persons with cash and food items.
Our correspondent reports that the beneficiaries included widows, single mothers, businessmen and women whose businesses went down due to one challenge or the other.
Presenting the items to the beneficiaries, Lead Pastor of the church, George Izunwa said the gesture was to assist members in their businesses and put food on their tables.
Izunwa, represented by Pastor Joseph Ajueshi, said that what was provided to the beneficiaries came from God to assist and support the beneficiaries.
He disclosed that monthly program was put together by the benevolent department of the church to help the less privileged to cushion the effects of the the present economic hardship.
He maintained that what the church is giving is just a token, pointing out that at least it could take care of immediate need at that particular time.
The Cleric who noted that the church would not relent in supporting her members, especially the widows, said the cash support to business owners, if judiciously utilized, they can start up something again.
Expressing appreciation, on behalf of the beneficiaries, Hope Kinika thanked the Church for the gesture which according to her gave them hope again.
She prayed God to continue to bless the Lead Pastor of the Church, George Izunwa who approved the funds for the benevolence.
In their separate speeches, Glory Egbetale, Maria Godwin, Boma Georgewill, Chinonye Okpala, described the church as unique and friendly, and lauded them for their compassion on members even as they enjoined other churches to emulate what Gateway is doing to alleviate the suffering of the less privileged who are members of the church.