Essien rakes in cash for the poor

Chelsea ace Michael Essien grossed over 120,000 Ghana cedis(US$ 100,000) for his foundation which was launched in Accra last Saturday.

 
The event held at the Banquet Hall of the State House was well attended by sports personalities and corporate Ghana who donated or purchased a 200 Ghana cedis(US$ 120)-a-seat ticket.

 
African football legend George Oppong Weah who helped the Black Stars midfielder to officially launch the foundation.

 
Telecommunication giants MTN donated 20,000 pounds a year for the next years, the auction sales of Didier Drogba's boots(3,000 Ghana cedis), John Terry's boots(8,000 Ghana cedis).

 
Petr Cech's gloves( 500 Ghana cedis), Chelsea construction kit(1,000 Ghana cedis) and Lampard's jersey(31,000 Ghana cedis).

 
Alhaji Sly Tetteh who nurtured Essien at Liberty President bought his autographed jersey for 40,000 Ghana cedis.

 
The Michael Essien Foundation is meant to provide amenities and a scheme for farmers in a five-year plan for his hometown, Awutu Breku.

 
"I have fond memories of Awutu Breku,but it's such a shame I don't get the time to visit there like I wanted. I am determined to do the little I can to impact on the lives of the people of my hometown and other parts of Ghana," Essien said.

  Essien had support from his Black Stars team mates Stephen Appiah, Sulley Muntari, John Painstil, Ghana Football Association President Kwesi Nyantakyi and head coach Milovan Rajevac.