A Decade of Lifesaving Support for Ebola Survivors 

For the past decade, the Tzu Chi Foundation has been a beacon of hope for Ebola survivors in Sierra Leone, offering critical support in the form of rice distribution. On September 2, Tzu Chi and its partners commenced its annual distribution in Freetown, starting in Goderich and later expanding to Kuntorloh, Portee, and Rokupa. This year marks ten consecutive years of unwavering dedication to helping survivors rebuild their lives despite the long-lasting effects of the Ebola outbreak. 

Partnerships that Empower 

This massive effort is made possible through Tzu Chi's collaboration with key partners: the Healey International Relief Foundation, Caritas Freetown, and the Lanyi Foundation. Together, they have touched countless lives, offering not only sustenance but also a sense of dignity and hope to those who have suffered unimaginable loss.  

Support Beyond Food 

Margaret Bassie, Tzu Chi’s representative in Sierra Leone, expressed deep gratitude for the participation and continued support from survivors and partners alike. She emphasized the importance of these rice distributions, particularly during the rainy season when challenges multiply for many Ebola survivors. "This support is more than just rice," Bassie shared. "It’s a lifeline for these families, especially during these tough months." 

Reaching Those in Need 

This year’s distribution reached survivors across the Western rural areas of Freetown, including a key event at the Lifeline Nehemiah Project Building in Kuntorloh. At the event, women received four 10kg bags of rice, while men received three. The rice, meticulously packed and distributed, ensures that each family has enough to last through these trying times. For many survivors, Tzu Chi’s support has become a vital resource as they continue to grapple with the lingering economic impacts of the Ebola crisis. 

Gratitude and Community Strength 

Daddy Hassan Kamara, spokesperson for the Ebola survivors, expressed heartfelt thanks on behalf of the community. "This support couldn’t have come at a better time," Kamara said. "The struggles we face are immense, but knowing Tzu Chi is still here, standing with us, gives us the strength to keep going." His words echoed the sentiments of many who have come to rely on this annual act of kindness. 

The Spirit of Giving Back 

What makes this rice distribution special is the spirit of giving it fosters within the survivor community. Despite their own hardships, recipients are encouraged to give back in any small way they can, contributing to Tzu Chi's ongoing humanitarian efforts. This reciprocity, no matter how modest, underscores the deep bond between Tzu Chi and the communities it serves. 

Stories of Resilience: Aminata Sesay’s Journey 

Aminata Sesay is one of many survivors whose life has been irrevocably changed by Ebola. Now in her 60s and visually impaired, Aminata lives in Mount Aureole. She contracted the Ebola virus during the outbreak and lost her eyesight as a result. Before the illness, Aminata was self-sufficient, running a small business. But when she lost her vision, she also lost her livelihood. To make matters worse, she lost three of her children to the virus. 

Today, Aminata relies on the kindness of others to survive. However, the rice she receives from Tzu Chi has brought her a sense of stability, if only for a month. "I can’t express how grateful I am for this rice," she said with a smile. "It will feed me and my grandchildren for the next month. Without it, we wouldn’t know where our next meal would come from." Her words are a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by survivors and how critical this support remains. 

Zainab Bangura’s Hope for the Future 

Zainab Bangura, another survivor, shared her story with a similar sense of gratitude. A single mother, Zainab has faced many hardships since the Ebola outbreak, but the annual rice distribution has been a source of immense relief. "I am so happy to receive this rice," she said. "It will help me provide for my children, especially now with the rainy season and school starting soon." 

The rice not only eases her immediate worries about food but also allows her to focus on her children's future. With the money she saves, she can buy school supplies and ensure her children have what they need for their education. "This rice means more than just food," she explained. "It gives me the ability to take care of my family in other ways, too. I am so thankful to Tzu Chi and their partners." 

For survivors like Zainab and Aminata, the rice distribution isn’t just about sustenance—it’s about survival, dignity, and hope. Each bag of rice represents a lifeline, a tangible reminder that they are not forgotten. As Tzu Chi marks ten years of helping Ebola survivors, its mission remains as vital as ever. Tzu Chi will continue to provide essential support to families who have endured so much, ensuring that even in their darkest moments, there is still hope.