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By: Emmanuel Tobotinho Quiah
MARYLAND-The National Food Assistance Agency (NFAA) has distributed assorted food items to persons living with disabilities in Pleebo City, Maryland County, in an initiative beneficiaries have described as timely, impactful, and a significant step toward social inclusion.
The distribution exercise targeted some of the most vulnerable members of the community and forms part of the Agency’s broader efforts to combat food insecurity and address the social and economic challenges faced by persons with disabilities, who often experience marginalization and limited access to basic necessities.
Leading the NFAA delegation was the Deputy Director General for Operations, Hon. Elton S. Dickson, who said the initiative was driven by the Agency’s mandate to ensure that food assistance reaches those mostly in need, without discrimination.
According to Hon. Dickson, the Pleebo distribution underscores the Agency’s commitment to inclusive service delivery and aligns with the government’s broader agenda to protect vulnerable populations across Liberia.
“This exercise is not just about giving food; it is about restoring dignity and demonstrating that people living with disabilities matter in our national development agenda,” Mr. Dickson stated.
He further disclosed that the National Food Assistance Agency plans to extend similar distributions to other communities within Maryland County and beyond, assuring beneficiaries that Pleebo marks the beginning of a wider and more inclusive outreach program.
Beneficiaries, many of whom are members of organized disability groups in Pleebo, expressed deep appreciation to NFAA for what they described as a lifesaving and well-timed intervention.
Speaking on behalf of persons with disabilities, Mary Toe noted that the food support came at a critical time when many households were struggling to meet their daily food needs.
“This initiative is timely and in the right direction. People with disabilities are often forgotten, but today the government, through NFAA, has remembered us,” she said.
Another recipient praised the Agency for engaging directly with disabled groups, describing the exercise as a powerful symbol of recognition and hope.
“We feel valued and included. This assistance will help our families and ease our burden, even if for a short time,” the beneficiary added.
Community members and beneficiaries used the occasion to call on the NFAA and the government to ensure that such initiatives are sustained and conducted regularly, stressing that consistent support would significantly improve the living standards of persons with disabilities.
In response, Hon. Dickson assured participants that the Agency is actively collaborating with national and international partners to strengthen food assistance programs across the country.
“Our vision is to reach more communities, especially hard-to-reach areas, and to ensure that vulnerable people, including persons with disabilities, are not left behind,” he emphasized.
The Pleebo distribution marks another milestone in the National Food Assistance Agency’s efforts since becoming a statutory institution. With plans underway to expand operations to additional communities, the Agency says it remains committed to fighting hunger, promoting social inclusion, and improving the welfare of Liberia’s most vulnerable citizens.
As the exercise concluded, beneficiaries departed with renewed hope, commending the NFAA for taking practical and compassionate steps toward addressing food insecurity and social inequality in Maryland County.
Alphonso Toweh
Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters
He holds first MA with honors in International Relations and a candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict Resolution from the University of Liberia.
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