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While Canada is looking to double its financial commitment to the fight against Ebola with a $30 million increase, a Hamilton man — originally from Liberia, is spearheading an initiative to help out his home country during the Ebola crisis. He’s already lost someone close to him to the deadly virus and he’s trying to make sure others don’t have to go through that.
Liberian native Leo Johnson has been living in Canada since 2006, and in just eight years, he’s already accomplished more than most people. He’s founded a not-for-profit organization to help underprivileged communities, as well as starting a project to help educate the youth of Liberia. But he’s now turned his attention to a more urgent cause over there — the deadly Ebola outbreak.
Relatives of Johnson have passed away from the virus, and he just lost his best friend to Ebola five days ago. His little sister Yassah Lavelah is currently working on the frontlines in Liberia as a nurse and supervisor.
They are now working together with the Key-Action Network to send funds and much-needed medical supplies and equipment to Liberia. Johnson says the shipment of suppllies will not be distributed through international organizations like the Red Cross because they don’t get there fast enough and time is of the essence because local doctors and nurses are dying every day.
Johnson, along with the Key-Action Network are holding a ‘Stop Ebola March’ this Saturday starting at 9am at St. Joseph’s Hospital, ending at city hall. There will also be a fund-raising dinner held the same day with the Liberian ambassador to the U.S., Canada, and Mexico taking part in both.
Click the link to get more info on how to help out with the local relief effort for Liberia.
