The NEWS (Monrovia)
2 April 2008
Monrovia — CARE, a leading humanitarian organization which once operated in Liberia in pre-war days has resumed operation in the country. However, the group said full operation would takeoff in the next few months.
CARE Nederland National Director Mr. Guus Eskens and CARE USA CEO Dr. Helene Gayle told a news conference Tuesday that the organization has returned to work with the government and people of Liberia in helping to build the country.
The CARE Executives explained that the organization places emphasis on fighting poverty by local people especially women and girls through various programs, saying experience has shown that this is the best way to leverage positive change in communities.
CARE USA ECO, Dr. Helene Gayle said they would also work in the area of livelihood by helping people in the agriculture sector which is important for the economic development.
"We will be looking at micro lending program to help people start small businesses and allow them to increase their livelihood...we will also look how to help people develop the ability in order to have economic option," Dr. Gayle said.
She informed newsmen that CARE will employ Liberians to work along side with few expatriate staff in order to know the culture and environment.
CARE Executives met President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf Monday at the Foreign Ministry. President Sirleaf hailed the announcement of CARE's return to Liberia and discussed possible partnerships in a wide range of areas.
"We are coming back with total enthusiasm," Dr. Gayle told President Sirleaf. This is an important time to make critical contributions to the development of Liberia under the new democratic leadership. We have tremendous experience in many of the areas of need in Liberia, including assistance in agriculture, health and education. And of course, our focus is empowering women and girls. Experience has confirmed this is the best way to leverage positive change in communities."
CARE is a leading humanitarian organization dedicated to fighting poverty and social injustice that works in about 70 countries world wide. CARE places special emphasis on investing in women and girls because experience shows that their empowerment benefits whole communities.
CARE undertook programs in Liberia from 1961 through 1983, providing school lunches, child nutrition, classroom supply kits, road construction, water systems, health education and clinics.
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