By The Prowess
More than 500 residents affected by recent fire disasters in Kroo Bay, Blackhall Road, and Congo Town have received emergency relief from the Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation, in a humanitarian outreach aimed at alleviating the hardship caused by the infernos.
The relief package included essential food items such as rice, multigrain, onions, seasoning cubes, palm oil, and vegetable oil. The gesture, according to the Foundation, is part of its ongoing commitment to support vulnerable communities during times of crisis.
Speaking during the distribution ceremony, Ishmeal Alfred Charles, Programs Manager of Caritas Freetown, sympathized with the victims, acknowledging the magnitude of their loss. “Fire disasters are sorrowful because when they occur, no matter how much we give, it can never replenish what has been lost,” he said. Charles conveyed greetings from Dharma Master Cheng Yen, Founder of the Tzu Chi Foundation, and stressed the importance of showing compassion to those in need. “We want them to know that in the midst of difficulty and pain, there are people who care,” he added.
Margaret Bassie, Tzu Chi Foundation’s local representative, explained that the aid was in response to fire incidents that occurred three weeks ago in the three communities. “That is why we decided to show love and compassion by donating relief items,” she said, noting the Foundation’s consistent engagement in emergency responses across Sierra Leone. “These supplies will make a significant difference, especially during the rainy season,” she added.
Gerald King, Regional Coordinator for the Western Region at the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), praised the Foundation for its continued support. “We thank Tzu Chi for always complementing government efforts, especially when there is no immediate budget to respond to such disasters,” he said. King encouraged the beneficiaries to use the items judiciously and share with family members.
Among the beneficiaries was Mariam Kamara, a resident of Kroo Bay, who recounted her ordeal with emotion. “We don’t have anywhere to sleep now, so we are squatting in a mosque,” she said. Fighting back tears, Kamara expressed deep gratitude to the Foundation. “This has eliminated hunger for my children and me for the coming weeks. I want to thank Dharma Master and all the volunteers for not forgetting us,” she said.
The donation, characterized by empathy and solidarity, reinforces the Foundation’s mission of relieving suffering and promoting human dignity. As affected families continue to recover, the Tzu Chi Foundation’s intervention stands as a reminder of the transformative impact of timely and compassionate humanitarian aid.
