Christ Heart Empowerment for Africa is a faith based non governmental organisation founded in 1998 by Pastor Olufemi Samuel and Mrs. Victoria Samuel.
It began with a conviction rather than an institution. That the love of Christ is not only something to be spoken about, but something people should be able to receive, hold and use. In the years since, that conviction has taken the shape of sustained humanitarian work.
What the work became
What began as a commitment to practical service has grown into 28 years of humanitarian assistance, empowerment and social support. Food and material relief where hardship is immediate. Vocational training, healthcare outreach and community development where the need runs deeper.
Widows, orphans and vulnerable children have been at the centre of that work from the beginning, along with a principle we have not moved from: support should restore dignity rather than replace it. People are greeted, not processed. Nobody is asked to prove need in front of their neighbours.
The rhythm of the year
The work concentrates around two moments. In December the Foundation runs its Christmas outreach, the largest single gathering in our calendar, built around food distribution, activities and gifts for children, and dedicated time with widows and elderly members of the community.
At Easter we run an outreach for widows, orphanages and people in acute need, weighted towards empowerment as much as relief. Between those points, the relationships built during an outreach are what carry the work forward. Communities tell us what is needed next, and that shapes where we go.
Faith that serves
The Foundation works alongside Christ Heart Mission Center, the church and ministry arm of the Christ Heart family. The two are distinct organisations with distinct work. One gathers and teaches. The other serves and empowers. Together they express one commitment.
Where it goes from here
After 28 years the need has not run out and neither has the intent. The Foundation continues to serve, and continues to look for people and organisations willing to serve alongside it.