A new charitable initiative aimed at uplifting gospel ministers, their family members, has officially launched out in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State on April 23, 2025.
The Uduak and Edaramfon Edemekong Foundation was inaugurated on Wednesday at Qua Iboe Church, 168 Aka Road, drawing the presence of ministers, church leaders, students, and members of the community.
The event marked what many attendees described as a much-needed intervention for often-overlooked section within the Christian community.
In a heartfelt address, the Chief Executive Officer of the foundation , Deaconess Uduak Edemekong, expressed profound gratitude to God and attendees for their presence.
“To us as a family, this is a dream come true,” she said. Emphasizing the foundation’s core mission, she noted that many gospel ministers are struggling silently with financial constraints that affect their ability to serve effectively. “We believe we can assist with our token in order to help them focus on their ministerial calling,” she added.
According to her, the foundation will provide monthly welfare support to pastors and their families across denominations in Akwa Ibom State, with future plans to expand nationwide. Packages will include cooked food, clothing, training manuals, and empowerment tools. Widows, orphans, and the children of pastors will also be prioritized in the foundation’s outreach programs.
Beyond speeches, the event also featured a generous distribution of gifts to pastors’ children, ministers and their spouses.
Mfoniso Udo Lawrence, a secondary school student of Ibesikpo Secondary Commercial School, Nung Udoe received writing materials and expressed his gratitude.
“This gift would go a long way in assisting me because I would not have to get new writing materials for the new school session,” he said, offering prayers for the foundation’s founders.
A University student, Emediong Victor Ekwo shared a similar sentiment. “I feel happy about the foundation and grateful for the gifts given to me and my family. It will save us from unnecessary spending for the new semester,” she said.
Another recipient, Edidiong Imeofon Akwaowo, a pastor’s wife, acknowledged the importance of the initiative.
“Many people assume pastors live off church offerings, forgetting that churches have their own projects and pastors often earn meager salaries. This foundation is a real blessing,” she stated.
Church leaders were not left out of the commendations. Deaconess Idongesit Victor Ekwo described the event as the most impactful she has attended this year. Dr. Reverend Victor Ekwo, Area Superintendent of Qua Iboe Church, Uyo Urban’s said, “This is the first time I have never heard of a foundation focused entirely on the welfare of pastors and their families. It is truly groundbreaking.”
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As the event came to a close, the spirit of generosity, compassion, and purpose filled the atmosphere. With the support of pastors, the commitment of the Edemekong family, and the prayers of the beneficiaries, the foundation looks set to make a lasting impact in the lives of many.
