Today marks the fifth day since the devastating fire incident that occurred on May 2nd, 2024, at Marbella-Susan’s Bay. In response to this tragedy, a collaborative effort has been initiated by the Partnering to Serve Humanity Consortium, comprising the Tzu Chi Foundation, Healey International Relief Foundation, Caritas Freetown, and LANYI Foundation. The consortium has launched a hot meal program to provide immediate relief to those affected by the fire as part of its psychotherapy response to disaster.

Father Peter Konteh, the Executive Director of Caritas Freetown, expressed gratitude to the Tzu Chi Foundation for generously funding this crucial intervention. He emphasized the coordinated efforts of the consortium to ensure the effective and efficient distribution of aid, extending heartfelt thanks to all supporters of the initiative.

Magrest Bassie, the representative of the Tzu Chi Foundation in Sierra Leone, stated that the hot meal program is a 14-day initiative aimed at benefiting 1,575 individuals from 320 households in the Susan’s Bay–Mabella community. Additionally, she emphasized the collaborative efforts with the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) to collect data and conduct assessments, ensuring the program’s effectiveness in addressing the immediate needs of the affected community.

Ishmeal Alfred Charles, In-Country Manager of Healey International Relief Foundation, shared the organization’s commitment to providing food for people affected by fire disasters to ensure access to nourishment and sustenance during a time of crisis. This support helps to address immediate hunger and nutritional needs, offering comfort and relief to those impacted by the disaster. Additionally, providing food can help restore a sense of stability and hope for individuals.

One resident, Fatmata Kanu, a mother of four, conveyed her appreciation to the Tzu Chi Foundation, emphasizing the significant challenges faced by her family since the fire incident. With the provision of food, she expressed joy and relief, highlighting the immediate impact on her and her children. However, she also voiced concerns about shelter as the rainy season approaches.

As the hot meal program commences, the collaborative efforts of the Partnering to Serve Humanity Consortium provide a beacon of hope for the fire-affected residents of Susan’s Bay, demonstrating the power of collective action in times of crisis. Coordinated with the NDMA, this consortium is currently the sole responder to this disaster, and the victims are grateful, although they continue to appeal for additional support.