The Member of Parliament for New Juaben South, Michael Okyere Baafi, has for the fifth consecutive year organized a major social intervention for the elderly, reaffirming his commitment to the welfare and wellbeing of his constituents.
The annual event, dubbed “Shop for Free,” was held at the Koforidua Methodist Astroturf and brought together thousands of residents aged 65 years and above from across the constituency.
The initiative, held ahead of the Christmas festivities, is aimed at easing the financial burden on the aged and ensuring they celebrate the season with dignity and happiness.
At the well-organized event, beneficiaries were allowed to freely select items of their choice, including clothing, bags of rice, live chickens, assorted foodstuffs, beverages, and other essential household items.
In addition to these, free personal care services such as pedicure and manicure were also provided, underscoring the holistic nature of the intervention.
A key highlight of this year’s edition was the inclusion of comprehensive free health screening services for all participants.
Qualified health professionals were on hand to conduct checks on blood pressure, blood sugar levels, body mass index, and general health assessments. Some beneficiaries also received basic eye checks and medical advice, while referrals were made for those who required further medical attention.
The health screening component was aimed at early detection and management of common age-related health conditions.
Speaking at the event, the MP Michael Okyere Baafi stressed that the well-being of his constituents, particularly the aged, remains a top priority.
He noted that good health is essential for quality living, especially among senior citizens, and therefore integrating health services into the program was necessary.
“Our elderly men and women have given their strength and time to build families, communities, and this nation. Their health and wellbeing are very important to us. That is why, beyond providing food and other essentials, we also brought health professionals to screen them and offer medical advice,” he stated.
The MP further assured constituents of his continued commitment to rolling out social interventions that directly impact vulnerable groups, adding that caring for the aged is a shared responsibility that must be sustained.
The atmosphere at the event was filled with joy and appreciation as beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the consistency of the initiative over the past five years.
The beneficiaries praised the addition of the health screening, describing it as “timely and lifesaving”, especially at a time of rising healthcare and living costs.
The “Shop for Free” initiative has become a flagship annual program in the New Juaben South Constituency, widely commended by residents and community leaders as a clear demonstration of compassionate, people-centered leadership.
