Residents of Juahn Town are celebrating the life-changing impact of the REALISE Project, as beneficiaries continue to turn financial support into tangible improvements for their families and communities.
One such beneficiary, Musu James, a resident of the SOS Village in Juahn Town, shared her inspiring success story during a recent visit by government officials. Through the unconditional cash transfers provided under the REALISE Project, James has been able to rebuild her life, construct a new house, and revive the small shop that supports her family.
Before receiving assistance from the program, Musu explained that she struggled to meet basic household needs and had very limited opportunities to generate income.
“Life was very difficult for me and my children before the project came,” she said. “When I started receiving the cash transfers, I decided to invest wisely. Today, I have built my own house and reopened my little shop. Now I can sell and support my family.”
Musus’ small shop, which sells essential household goods to residents in the community, has quickly become an important source of income and stability for her household.
Her story reflects the broader goals of the REALISE Project, which is helping vulnerable households across Liberia build resilience and improve their livelihoods through social protection programs.
During a recent visit to the community, Frederick Cooper Deputy Minister at the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection praised the positive impact of the initiative and encouraged beneficiaries to continue using the support productively.
“The stories we are hearing from beneficiaries like Musu show that social protection works,” Deputy Minister Cooper said. “The Government of Liberia and its partners designed the REALISE Project to help vulnerable families rebuild their lives, and we are pleased to see people using the cash transfers to build homes, start businesses, and secure a better future for their children.”
He added that the government remains committed to expanding social protection programs that empower communities and reduce poverty across the country.
The Deputy Minister also encouraged residents of Juahn Town to continue working together to ensure that the benefits of the project reach those who need them most.
Community members expressed gratitude to the Government of Liberia and development partners for implementing the REALISE Project, noting that the initiative is restoring hope and improving living conditions for many vulnerable households.
For James, the impact of the program goes far beyond financial assistance.
“This project changed my life,” she said with a smile. “Now I have a house of my own and a business again. I am very thankful.”
As the REALISE Project continues its work across Grand Bassa County and other parts of the country, stories like James’ stand as powerful reminders of how social protection can transform lives and strengthen communities.
