Ruth has had the help of Head Nurse Sam and Social Worker Emmanuelle, pictured below. They have kept a list of survivors from ELWA 3 including orphans who have been taken in by local families. As per MSF's policy, Ruth has not been allowed to go and meet these people due to risk of infection in the community - she is required to stay in the hospital and staff accommodation.
Sam and Emmanuelle have visited the families and given Ruth lists of those in need of support to care for orphans. The heads of the families have then been brought to meet Ruth and she has given them donations of US$40 per child. Some of these heads of families are only 23 or 24 years old, and have taken in up to 12 children. Food is not cheap in Liberia, most people have a poor diet and crowded housing, living from hand to mouth without the security of having a bank account. There is no state welfare system, orphans are dependent on extended family, friends and charity-run orphanages.
We feel that the money has gone to the right people, because they have been identified from official records and been visited to check their circumstances. Sam and Emmanuelle have ensured the best possible level of accountability for the donors.
So far, US$2000 out of the $3400 has been used. There are many more people who can be helped, and there is a plan to buy Christmas presents for the children.
The fund is still open and Ruth can continue to use as many donations as are given. She can access the money immediately it is donated.
The photos on the "gallery" page show the heads of families receiving the money, and giving notes of thanks.
Thank you again to everyone who has helped.
