In Bong County, Liberia
By J. Peter S. Dennis, dennisrealone@gmail.com
GBARNGA, Liberia- The Liberian National Red Cross Society has successfully completed cash transfers to 150 families affected by the unprecedented flooding in Gbarnga and the tragic fire incident in Totota, lower Bong County, a Red Cross press release says.
Additionally, 50 of the115 flood-affected families whose homes suffered damage, are also expected to receive similar cash transfer for facilitating repairs and reconstruction, the release under the signatures of its communication officer, Oniel Bestman discloses.
The mobile money transfer aimed to support families in meeting their basic needs, including food, and facilitating a swift recovery process.
The press statement didn’t state the sum transferred to each beneficiary or family.
The release also noted that the aftermath of the flood in the community was profoundly devastating with homes being destroyed, families displaced, drinking water sources contaminated while the Totota fire incident claimed the lives of over 75 people and left many injured, alongside significant property damage.
In September 2023, with generous funding from the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Society (IFRC), the Liberian Red Cross extended cash assistance to 115 families affected by the flooding, primarily impacting three communities: Brooklyn, Civil Compound and Rubber Factory in Gbarnga.
Previously, the LNRC provided food, essential non-food items, mosquito nets, and community cleaning tools to flood-affected communities in Gbarnga.
Also, the Liberian Red Cross, with support from the Swedish Red Cross, provided cash assistance to 35 families affected by the Totota fire incident.
The Liberian Red Cross Society Secretary General, Mr. Gregory Blamoh reiterated the Red Cross’ commitment to prioritizing the most vulnerable individuals within the affected communities, including pregnant women, single mothers, people living with disabilities, and those without income.
“The cash transfer doesn’t only address the immediate needs of affected families, but also facilitates their recovery journey with dignity” Mr. Blamoh emphasized.
Expressing heartfelt gratitude, beneficiaries appreciated Red Cross for its cash transfer.
According to them, the cash transfer assistance is a “lifeline” in their efforts to rebuild and recover after the devastating floods.
Meanwhile, the Liberian National Red Cross Society has lauded the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Society (IFRC), the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), local authorities including community leaders and beneficiaries for their unwavering support thus “making an impact on the lives of those affected by these disasters”.
The Liberian Red Cross Society is a humanitarian organization committed to providing assistance and support to the most vulnerable communities in Liberia.