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Politics News

Old folks benefit 500 bags of rice

The Executive Director of the National Old Folks of Liberia (NOFOL) has benefited more than 500 bags, including gallons of oil and bags of beans distributed by the World Food Programme (WFP) as part Government of Liberia stimulus package for vulnerable groups. The food is expected to be distributed over 400 old folks.

Director Momo Allison Bainda indicated that the actual number of items provided include 575 bags of rice, 286 gallons of oil and 57 bags of bean which were received over the weekend by the organization at its headquarters in Barnesville Estate outside Monrovia.

Director Bainda made the disclosure recently when the organization commerced distribution of the food items to old folks across various communities in Monrovia and its environs.

He lauded WFP for the support to vulnerable old folks across the country something, he said, would bring dignity to older people.He noted that when people age in Liberia, most of them are described as witches and wizards in society which undermines their dignity.

Director Bainda disclosed the organization has petitioned the 54th Legislature to enact a bill to support old folks here, adding that the bill is sponsored by Representative Richard Koon of Montserrado County electoral District#12.
He said this will ensure that when Liberians serve their country and retire, government should support them until their last day on earth.

According to him, the United States of America is blessed because it has national programs that cater to vulnerable groups in its population.
He said it is time Liberia considers having national programs to support vulnerable populations, noting that most Liberians after retirement become vulnerable in society.

Director Bainda emphasized that the passage of such bill will go a long way to enhancing dignities of old people, citing the disgraceful death of former Justice Minister Jerkins Z. B. Scott in garbage site in Monrovia.

He said the organization is appealing to the international community to build the capacity of the NOFOL thru technical skills to be able to adequately address old folks care and treatment in the country.

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He said NOFOL has been engaged in farming activities over the years to assist its members with food, but due to financial constraint the farm activities have been halted.

Director Bainda disclosed that an estimated 50,000 vulnerable old folks across Liberia need urgent food assistance especially, as the country battles the COVID-19 pandemic. Editing by Jonathan Browne

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