Africa-Press – Liberia. The International Children’s Alert (ICA) over the weekend brought Christmas cheer to more than 300 children in Old Matadi Estate, as part of its 2025 Season Festival celebrations.
International Children’s Alert is a non-profit organization established to support the welfare of impoverished and vulnerable children in Liberia and around the world through the provision of food, water, medicine, clothing, and other essential services.
Speaking via telephone from the United States of America during the program, ICA Chief Executive Officer, Quienette Mbakellah, praised the children for turning out in large numbers to participate in the celebration.
“Good morning children. I am happy for all of you to be here to celebrate our season festival,” Mbakellah said.
The ICA CEO reflected on the humble beginnings of the organization, noting that it initially started as the Kids Mentoring Group before evolving into International Children’s Alert.
“At the Kids Mentoring Group, we used to organize clean-up campaigns and study classes, and we made sure we catered to many children in the community. We started in 2011 right here in Matadi Estate. In 2014, the institution grew bigger after some of my friends became interested,” she explained.
Mbakellah further disclosed that ICA has since expanded its reach, providing care and support to between 300 and 400 children across several counties in Liberia.
“We have celebrated Christmas in other counties, and this year, during our anniversary, we thought it wise to celebrate in the place where the organization started—Matadi Estate. We decided to share the same gifts we gave to children in other counties with you,” she added.
Emphasizing the importance of spreading joy during the festive season, Mbakellah said ICA is committed to ensuring that no child feels left out at Christmas.
“We don’t want children to be sad during the Christmas season. Some children don’t have parents who can afford to buy them gifts, so that is why we brought these gifts—to put smiles on your faces. Enjoy yourselves and have fun,” she urged.
Meanwhile, Salymatu Kallon, Head of the Program, told FrontPage Africa that the beneficiaries were not limited to children from Matadi Estate alone, but also included children from surrounding communities.
“Some of the children are from nearby areas, and in total they are over 300. The children were happy because they received food and gifts, so our goal was achieved. We also included games, which made the program fun,” Kallon said.
She added that ICA’s annual activities consistently focus on meeting children’s needs during the Christmas season.
Officials of the International Children’s Alert Posed for Picture during the event
“Every year, our CEO sends school materials, clothes, toys, and foodstuff—things the children love and that make them happy. This year, we also carried out pampers giveaway at Redemption Hospital for families who cannot afford them. Christmas is a time of sharing,” she noted.
Looking ahead, International Children’s Alert disclosed plans to expand its care package distribution from once a year to every six months through fundraising initiatives, to ensure children have continuous access to food and clothing.
The organization also aims to build strong and lasting partnerships with other institutions to enhance its developmental programs, ensuring that children across Africa and beyond are supported to live healthy lives and pursue their dreams.
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