The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), has empowered 100 elderly persons with disabilities and elderly caregivers of children with disabilities under its annual Cash Support and Medical Outreach programme.
The annual Support Programme tagged: “Cash Support and Medical Outreach to Elderly Persons with Disabilities and Elderly Caregivers”, according to the agency, is to fulfill its mandate and the vision of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, which is committed to ensuring that no citizen is left behind.
The programme features the disbursement of cash support and the provision of medical services to the beneficiaries drawn from across Lagos State.
Speaking at the event, held at the LASODA premises Alausa Secretariat Ikeja, the General Manager LASODA, Mrs Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal explained that the financial gesture is a provision that aligns with the commitment of the Lagos State Government to promote inclusion, dignity, and social protection for vulnerable groups.
Oyetunde-Lawal said that in the past years, the agency has implemented several impactful programs that have promoted the independence of persons with disabilities, their dignity, as well as enhanced engagement within their communities.
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“At LASODA, inclusion is at the heart of everything we do, and our goal is to create a Lagos where every resident, including our senior citizens with disabilities, can participate fully and meaningfully in society.
Through this initiative, we are providing financial support to 100 elderly persons with disabilities across Lagos State.
This support is designed to help our elders meet personal needs, access healthcare services, improve mobility, and, in some cases, support small livelihood activities. The objective is simple yet powerful: to empower, not merely to give.” she said
She acknowledged the fear that most parents have, which is the concern of who will look after their children after they might have gone, stressing that God will preserve their lives and the children while assuring them of continued support by the government.
She, however, encouraged them to continue to persevere and establish communication with the government and relevant stakeholders to better their lots.
According to her, “LASODA remains resolute in its commitment to protecting the rights of persons with disabilities and ensuring their full integration into society. We will continue to advocate for and implement initiatives that enable everyone to live fulfilling, productive, and dignified lives.”
Beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the state government, describing the intervention as timely and impactful.