The Saruja Foundation Ramadan and COVID-19 Food Support to Saruja Community
Bags of rice
Saruja Village, CRR 7th May 2020
The 45 day State of Public Emergency that aims to contain the spread of COVID-19 in The Gambia has affected many communities. Additionally, the declaration also coincides with the start of the holy month of Ramadan. Therefore, the Executives of The Saruja Foundation made a public appeal to all Sarujankas in the Gambia and abroad to mitigate the effects of the lockdown on the livelihoods of the most vulnerable households in the village through cash donations.
The donations generated from this appeal was more than D83,000. The Foundation members agreed to spend the money on a food support program and purchased Fifty-Nine (59) bags of rice for distribution among 219 households in the village.
Speaking about the community support, the Foundation’s President, Mustapha Nyabally said “ The donations were timely, given that the appeal was communicated at short notice. Despite the short notice, members response was generous and overwhelming.”
Nyabally said he feels so proud that members responded quickly to provide support to their own people which is very significant. He reminded us that the appeal is in line with the Foundation’s social and humanitarian welfare objectives which aims to provide social support during uncertain times.
This kind gesture is intended to give back to the community where most of the donors’ life journey began as a token of appreciation, moral and humanistic obligation. It will help improve the livelihoods of vulnerable households.
The presentation of the gift was witnessed by the elders and youths of the villages. The Alkalo and a cross-section of the elders of the village, on behalf of the village, also expressed gratitude to the members of the Saruja Foundation for the food assistance.