— Empowers communities for long-term recovery and resilience
The Liberia National Red Cross Society (LNRCS) has successfully completed the disbursement of emergency cash transfers to 1,500 families impacted by the devastating floods in June and July 2024. This financial aid is part of the organization’s broader efforts to support the recovery of vulnerable communities.
Each family received a total of US$185, distributed in two installments, to address immediate needs arising from the flooding. The assistance reached a total of 13,100 individuals across 21 communities in Bong, Grand Cape Mount, and Montserrado Counties. These areas were among the hardest hit by the unprecedented floods.
In addition to the cash assistance, the LNRCS is also providing shelter support to 400 families whose homes were partially or completely destroyed. Each of these families will receive US$150 to aid in home repairs, helping them rebuild and recover from the long-term impacts of the disaster.
In July, the LNRCS secured over half a million U.S. dollars from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) through its Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF). This funding, which includes contributions from the European Union (EU), has reinforced the Liberian Red Cross’ ability to provide crucial aid in the areas of livelihoods and shelter to those affected by the severe flooding.
To further support recovery and build community resilience, the LNRCS has distributed cleaning tools—including wheelbarrows, shovels, whippers, and cutlasses—to the affected communities. These tools encourage regular environmental maintenance, such as drainage clearing, which is part of ongoing disaster risk reduction efforts.
Speaking on the initiative, Gregory T. Blamoh, Secretary General of the LNRCS, emphasized the importance of community involvement in the recovery process:
“Together, we are helping communities recover and build back stronger. The Red Cross and its partners are not only providing immediate relief but also working closely with the affected families to promote long-term resilience. Community engagement in activities like drainage clearing is critical to reducing the impact of future floods.”
Mr. Blamoh reiterated the organization’s commitment to supporting flood-affected communities in their efforts to recover, rebuild, and enhance their resilience in the face of growing climate-related challenges.
The LNRCS and its partners are working with affected communities to ensure a coordinated and sustainable recovery process. Beyond providing relief, the focus remains on addressing the root causes of vulnerability, including climate change, sea erosion, and flooding. By empowering communities to adopt mitigation measures, the Liberian Red Cross is strengthening their capacity to withstand future climate shocks.
