For the 2023 Global Handwashing Day with the campaign theme “Clean hands are within reach,” we decided to take our handwashing campaign to two orphanages in Lagos, to teach hand washing and hygiene to 70 children and orphanage caregivers.
On the 14th of October, our team members geared up to spread the message that clean hands are within reach of children in orphanage homes. Teaching handwashing and hygiene in orphanages is a crucial aspect of promoting the health and well-being of children who reside in these institutions, as orphanages often house vulnerable populations, and the importance of instilling good hygiene practices extends beyond the walls of the facility.
The day kicked off at Bales of Mercy Orphanage home in Bariga, Lagos where we took the stage to set the tone for the importance of handwashing. The theme, “Clean hands are within reach,” echoed in the air as the children and caregivers eagerly awaited the interactive session that would follow. The event was not just about words; it was about action. Two participants bravely stepped forward for a hands-on demonstration of the proper handwashing technique, setting the stage for the actual teaching session. The children were quick learners, actively engaging in the discussion and demonstrating their understanding of the steps.
The lesson and demonstration on handwashing emphasized the tips and timing for effective hand hygiene. The children absorbed the knowledge like sponges and our team members added a musical touch to the event by teaching the handwashing song to the tune of “Row row row your boat,” making the experience both memorable and enjoyable.
This was followed by an interactive segment where the children were curious to learn more about how to make the best of what they had learned. We also provided gifts for the children for their active participation and the joy they expressed about promoting hand hygiene. As the event concluded, we donated essential items to the orphanage, including hand sanitizers, hand wash, buckets, towels, and food materials, spreading the message that cleanliness is a holistic effort.
The second part of the event took place at Royal Diamond Orphanage Home in Berger, Lagos. We once again had a great time with 15 children and their caregivers while preaching the gospel of handwashing. The event took an interactive turn with demonstrations of how germs transfer, emphasizing the importance of proper handwashing.
We led the lesson on handwashing, ensuring that the children and caregivers were well-versed in the steps, tips, and timing. The handwashing song again reverberated through the air, creating a sense of unity and shared responsibility among the participants.
We also had a moment to engage and interact with the participants and donated to the orphanage, thus mirroring the generosity shown at the first location, and reinforcing our commitment to holistic health.
The success of this campaign in these two orphanages was evident in the increased knowledge of handwashing among children and caregivers in the orphanage homes. We celebrated not only the clean hands but also the lives touched, lessons learned, and the community strengthened through shared knowledge and a commitment to public health.
Clean hands were indeed within reach, thanks to the unwavering dedication of our team and the active participation of the communities involved.
