WORD OF LIFE INT’L RALLIES SUPPORT FOR LIBERIA’S ELDERLY; DISTRIBUTE CHRISTMAS GIFTS TO OLD FOLKS

By Jeremiah Sackie Cooper

Gmail: jeremiahcooper105@gmail.com  

Paynesville – In a bid to uplift Liberia’s aging population, the Word of Life International, a Christian church and non-governmental organization, is rallying for support for Liberia’s aging population. Making the call, the group focal person, Rebecca Nyamndo highlighted the challenges faced by elderly individuals who are abandoned by their family.

She noted that with no proper care, many of these elderly individuals undergo severe pain and suffering, leading to frustration and declining health. Madam Nyamndo called on Liberians to treat elderly people with love and respect, noting their valuable role in society.

 “Many elderly people face abandonment and frustration, leading to deteriorating health and wellbeing,” Nyamndo stated. However, as part of the Christmas celebration, Word of Life Int’l has brought joy to over 35 elderly residents in Montserrado County by donating food items.

The donation event took place on Monday, December 23, 2024, at the church’s edifice in Pipeline, Paynesville. Beneficiaries aged 61 and above received essential supplies, including a 25kg bag of rice, cooking oil, and spices. The recipients, comprising 24 men and 11 women, were selected from six communities: Johnsonville, Pipeline Bassa Town, Omega Community, Soul Clinic, and Morris’ Farm.

According to Madam Nyamndo, the donation is intended to provide support for old people during this year’s Christmas celebration. She stated that her group is committed to ensuring the general well-being of elderly people across Liberia. “Since October 22, 2022, we have been supporting over 35 elderly individuals with donations,” Nyamndo said.

“Our goal is to expand this initiative to reach 500 aging people across all 15 counties of Liberia. Beyond food aid, we aim to provide counseling and free medical treatment in the near future.” Madam Nyamndo said. She also expressed gratitude to partners such as the United Nations and USAID for supporting the initiative. Also speaking, Rev. Anderson Vanwen, National Overseer of the Word of Life, encouraged the beneficiaries to lead by example in their communities.

“Christmas is a season of love. Let’s share love with everyone and discourage violence during the celebrations,” he advised. The beneficiaries expressed heartfelt appreciation for the support. Pa Jackson Tokpah, one of the recipients, described the donation as timely and impactful. “I have been receiving support from Word of Life for about three years now.

They are doing what the government has failed to do for us. May God bless them,” he said. Another beneficiary, Ma Eidther Paykay, expressed gratitude: “This donation will go a long way. Words cannot express how I feel right now.” Ma Mary Kermou, another recipient, shared her relief and joy. “Some of us don’t have children to care for us, but Word of Life has filled that gap. We pray this initiative continues to help others like me,” she said. Through its ongoing efforts, Word of Life International continues to spread love and hope among Liberia’s elderly, exemplifying the true spirit of Christmas.