In the words of Marion C. Garretty, “a mother’s love is the fuel that enables a normal human being to do the impossible.” This is an undisputable fact.
According to Washington Irving “a mother’s love endures through all.” To the world she is a mother, but to her family, she is the world.
Ezinne Esther George Obasi (nee Okoro) was a woman among women. A woman with a heart of gold, she fed multitude in her kitchen and hundreds grew under her tutelage.
She encouraged her children and those who came her way to be serious in their endeavours. She also preached the gospel of love and generosity. Many imbibed her beautiful sermon.
But like all mortals, she transited to higher glory a decade ago. Although she is no more physically present in the land of the living, her memory remains evergreen in the hearts of those who knew her.
To immortalize this remarkable woman, her children set up a foundation to cater for widows and indigent individuals, among others.
As the Ezinne Humanitarian Foundation was unveiled, the family said: “Today, we come together to commemorate not just a passage of time but to celebrate the enduring legacy of a remarkable woman, our beloved mother, Ezinne Esther George. A decade has passed since she left our physical presence, yet her spirit lingers in the memories we hold dear and the lessons she imparted through a life dedicated to kindness, compassion and unwavering humanity.
“In remembering her, we find inspiration to turn grief into purpose, sorrow into a force for good. Thus, we stand united on the bliss of a new beginning: the launch of the Ezinne Humanitarian Foundation – an institution that breathes life into the principles she lived by and the values she held sacred.”
Unveiling the package, the family disclosed that the foundation is unique in terms of content and character. They said: “The Ezinne Humanitarian Foundation is not merely an organizational entity, it is a living, breathing embodiment of the extraordinary woman we fondly remember today and always.
“Borne out of a desire to immortalize her and create an enduring legacy, this foundation is a testament to the love, compassion and altruism that defined her existence. Ezinne was not a bystander in the face of human suffering: she was a beacon of hope, a source of solace for those in need. “Her life was a tapestry woven with threads of empathy, kindness and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. From extending a helping hand to a neighbour in need to championing causes that advocated for justice and equality, her influence was both far-reaching and deeply personal.
“As we delve into the heart of this foundation, we acknowledge that our mother occupied a unique position in her businesses and she used that to extend solace to people in need, particularly her very last business that was a thriving food restaurant.
“The focus of this foundation pivots towards the changes she achieved in the landscape of humanitarian giving and mentorship in Uburu and beyond.
“The core purpose of the Ezinne Humanitarian Foundation is to channel the boundless compassion that defined her into tangible, impactful initiatives. Grounded in the belief that collective efforts can sow the seeds of transformative change, the foundation is committed to: Humanitarian assistance – Offering immediate relief and support to individuals and families grappling with crises, be they economic, social, or other challenges.
“Education and empowerment: Fostering educational opportunities, particularly for underprivileged children, with the firm belief that education is the key to breaking the chains of poverty and ignorance.
“Health and wellness initiatives: Enhancing healthcare access and providing support for those facing health challenges.
“Community development: Initiating sustainable projects aimed at holistic community development, including infrastructure enhancements, livelihood support, and the nurturing of social cohesion.
“The Ezinne Humanitarian Foundation is defined by its determination to engage in a spectrum of activities reflective of the principles she held dear, including occasional deployment of aid and resources to individuals and families facing crises, ensuring relief and support in times of dire need.
“The foundation is establishing scholarship initiatives to pave the way for deserving students, carrying forward the legacy of learning and enlightenment as well as organizing medical outreach, extending healthcare services, and offering support to those grappling with health challenges.
“There will also be skill development initiatives aimed at empowering individuals, fostering self-reliance and sustainability.
“The foundation will collaborate with like-minded organizations, advocating for humanitarian causes, and amplifying our collective impact on a broader scale. In launching the Ezinne Humanitarian Foundation, we embark on a journey inspired by love, empathy, and the profound desire to make the world a better place – just as Ezinne envisioned.
“As we take these initial steps, we extend invitations to everyone to join us in turning her dreams into realities, ensuring that her legacy of love and compassion continues to shine brightly in the lives of those we touch.”
The official launch of Ezinne Humanitarian Foundation took place during a thanksgiving service at her hometown, Uburu in Ohaozara Local Government Area, Ebony State.
Many of those who graced the occasion commended the family for the initiative, stressing that it is well thought-out.