The Benson Adeyemi Foundation (BAF), in partnership with SANDEF, conducted a comprehensive medical and mental health outreach program in Ila, Osun State, on 16 August 2025. This initiative is part of The Purple Initiative, BAF’s flagship program aimed at improving access to healthcare and promoting community well-being.
Objectives
The outreach was designed to provide free, accessible healthcare services to the people of Ila, while also raising awareness about mental health as an essential component of overall wellness. The goal was to empower individuals to understand their health status, receive timely medical intervention, and learn practical strategies for maintaining both physical and psychological well-being.
Activities
The outreach team arrived at the venue at 8:40 a.m. to set up stations, and activities officially began at 9:00 a.m., running until 4:00 p.m.
A well-coordinated team of two doctors, seven nurses, one pharmacist, two assistants, a 16-person data collection team, a mental health education unit, media personnel, and volunteers worked together to deliver seamless services.
Participants were guided through a structured process that included registration, weight and height measurements, blood pressure and blood sugar screenings, consultations with physicians, and the collection of necessary medications free of charge.
A special mental health component provided education and awareness sessions, helping participants understand the importance of mental health care and breaking stigma surrounding psychological challenges. Media personnel documented the event, ensuring the outreach received community visibility and engagement.
Outcomes and Impact
The outreach successfully served 257 beneficiaries (200 females and 57 males), ranging in age from 10 to 100 years. The turnout demonstrated strong community interest in both physical and mental health services.
The presence of the traditional ruler of Ila underscored the program’s importance, and community members expressed heartfelt gratitude for the services provided. Many participants requested that such outreach programs be organized more frequently, reflecting the strong demand for accessible healthcare and mental health education in the community.
Conclusion
The Ila medical and mental health outreach stands as a successful collaboration between BAF and SANDEF, reaching 257 individuals and leaving a lasting impact on the community. This initiative reflects BAF’s unwavering commitment to bridging healthcare gaps, fostering mental health awareness, and working alongside local leaders to improve the lives of underserved populations.
