By Mohamed J Kargbo
In a remarkable display of humanitarian support, Caritas, in collaboration with Tzu Chi, Healey Relief Foundation, and Lanyi Foundation, provided emergency disaster relief to 1,575 individuals from 320 families affected by a devastating fire at Marbella Susan’s Bay.
The initiative, funded by Taiwan-based Tzu Chi Foundation, included 21 days of hot meals followed by essential relief supplies such as food items, foam mattresses, rubber buckets, tarpaulins, blankets, and sanitary kits.
During the distribution event on Saturday, June 22, Father Peter Konteh, Head of Caritas Sierra Leone, expressed his joy at seeing the victims smile after their traumatic ordeal.
He emphasized the importance of serving humanity and commended the swift response of his team and partners following the National Disaster Management Agency’s call for help.
Margaret Bassie, representing Tzu Chi Foundation’s Master Cheng Yen, conveyed her heartfelt condolences and commitment to ongoing support. She urged the community to adopt preventive measures to avoid future incidents.
Gerald King from the National Disaster Management Agency echoed the sentiments of previous speakers, stressing the need for vigilance to prevent man-made disasters and praising the timely intervention of Caritas and its partners.
Alie G. Kargbo, a beneficiary of the aid, shared his harrowing experience of being unable to save any belongings due to his disability.
He expressed deep gratitude for the 21 days of meals and essential relief items provided, hoping for a safer future and better living conditions for the community.
