Softcom Limited has launched a crowdfunding platform ‘HelpNow’, to seek and support Nigerians who have been adversely affected by COVID-19.
HelpNow is a private sector-led collaboration focused on contributing towards achieving the SDG Agenda 2030 on ending poverty, ensuring zero hunger, and ultimately improving the quality of life and wellbeing of every Nigerian.
The platform will pair donors with beneficiaries who require support at any point in time.
Commenting on the launch of HelpNow, the Chief Executive Officer, Softcom Limited, Yomi Adedeji, said the initiative was for those who were having challenges in providing for themselves and their families as a result of the impacts of COVID-19.
He said: “As a result of the effects of this virus and its restriction of economic activities, the vulnerable in our society will have challenges in catering for themselves and their families.
“And the ones that can survive this phase will need our help now to get back on their feet. It is for these reasons that Softcom Limited developed the HelpNow platform.
“We also worked with the Bank of Industry, the telcos, and Lagos State Government to organise the records of vulnerable Nigerians in Lagos, covering people with disabilities, the poorest households and the aged. This is to ensure that the target segment of the society we developed this initiative is sufficiently reached.
“These records reduce guesses or duplication of efforts and ensure that more people are reached, and no individual or family benefits more than once. It is important to note that the credibility and transparency of the process is assured.”
Adedeji added that Deloitte and Ernst & Young would provide audit and operational support to guarantee that every kobo donated got to a beneficiary as promised.
Corporates and private individuals in Nigeria and worldwide are encouraged to visit the website to donate to this humanitarian cause targeted at ending poverty and hunger in Nigeria. Donors can view the impact of their giving as well as beneficiaries’ testimonials on the platform.
The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu who was present at the launch held recently at Lagos House Marina, commended Softcom and its partners for introducing HelpNow.
“For creating a platform that encourages collaboration and speedily mobilises succour for the needy and vulnerable, I commend Softcom Limited and its partners. The people of Lagos State appreciate your ingenuity and thoughtfulness.
“With the launch of HelpNow, we now have a platform that aggregates support for government’s efforts at alleviating the sufferings of the poor and vulnerable in our society”, Sanwo-Olu concluded.
