ROTARY CLUB OF ACCRA-EAST PARTNERS WITH CHAIR THE HOPE TO SHARE COMPASSION AND TRANSFORM LIVES
In a demonstration of Service Above Self, the Rotary Club of Accra-East, in collaboration with the benevolent organisation Chair The Hope, recently completed a two-day community outreach initiative. With a collective investment of GH¢ 60,000, the partnership provided ten wheelchairs, medical supplies, and groceries to some persons with special needs in Accra, reinforcing Rotary’s unwavering commitment to community and compassion.
Day One: Bringing Christmas Joy to Weija Leprosarium
On December 30, 2025, Rotarians and volunteers visited the Weija Leprosarium. The visit went beyond the generous donation of essential food items, toiletries, and medical supplies. Led by President Mary Elorm Addo of the Rotary Club of Accra-East and Heather, Team Lead of Chair The Hope, the team engaged in heartfelt conversations, helped with cleaning the living quarters, and participated in singing Christmas carols.
This gesture served as a profound reminder to the residents—many of whom are cured lepers facing social rejection—that they are recognised, valued, and remembered. “We are pleased to donate these items in the spirit of Christmas. This is our way of showing love to the marginalised,” shared Heather.
President Elorm emphasised the core Rotary motivation: “We embarked on this project to put smiles on the faces of the vulnerable. There is true fulfilment in giving.” The gratitude of the community was conveyed by John, a resident receiving the items on behalf of the home, along with Executive Director Father Campbell, who expressed deep appreciation and hope for continued visits.
Day Two: Empowering the Elderly and Families in Madina
Continuing their mission on 31 December 2025, the team extended their outreach to 74 elderly individuals, widows, single-parent families, and persons living with disabilities in Madina. The support was both practical and transformative. Beneficiaries received groceries, including bags of rice, cooking oil, and canned goods, to ease daily burdens.
A highlight was the presentation of four wheelchairs during home visits, immediately restoring mobility, independence, and dignity to recipients. Families with children were also given toys, school supplies, and hygiene products, ensuring comprehensive support.
Madam Gifty, a beneficiary speaking on behalf of the Madina community, expressed sincere gratitude. “We commend the organisations for this initiative,” she said, encouraging other groups and individuals to emulate such compassionate actions.
A Testament to Collaborative Service
These back-to-back projects clearly demonstrate the exponential effect of strategic partnerships. Through intentional service and shared goodwill, the Rotary Club of Accra-East and Chair the Hope have offered immediate relief, strengthened community ties, and sparked a multiplier effect of kindness. This initiative stands as a proud example of how Rotary, through fellowship and dedicated action, continues to create lasting change and touch lives, one community at a time.
