Commandery #527 and St. Veronica Ladies Auxiliary #486, Knights of St. John International at Our Lady Star of the Sea Parish, Juba, Freetown, have donated food and clothing items to support vulnerable parishioners during the Lenten season.

The donation was made on Saturday 14 March 2025 to the St. Vincent de Paul Society during a brief ceremony held on the parish grounds behind the church.

The initiative forms part of a joint charitable outreach by Knights of St. John International Commandery #527 and Ladies Auxiliary #486, aimed at assisting parishioners in need during Lent, a period when the Catholic Church emphasises prayer, fasting, and acts of charity.

Items donated included bags of rice, salt, onions, flour, sugar, cooking oil, tomato paste, and Maggi seasoning, as well as clothing and shoes.

According to organisers, the items will be distributed by the St. Vincent de Paul Society to parishioners requiring assistance within the parish community.

Speaking during the presentation, the Worthy President of KSJI Commandery #527, Capt. Stephen Gaojia, said the initiative reflects the organisation’s continued commitment to charity and service.

“This is a joint venture to strengthen the work of the St. Vincent de Paul Society. Our aim is to support those in need and promote the spirit of compassion within our parish community,” he said.

Capt. Gaojia noted that while the Knights have previously supported charitable initiatives outside the parish, there are also many individuals within the parish who require assistance.

He added that the Knights and their Ladies Auxiliary would continue working closely with the St. Vincent de Paul Society to ensure sustained support for vulnerable parishioners.

In her remarks, the Respected President of St. Veronica Ladies Auxiliary #486, Mrs. Tenneh Baimba Kelfala, praised the efforts of the Knights in organising the donation.

She said the initiative demonstrates the importance of unity and collective responsibility in supporting the poor and vulnerable within the church community.

“This is only the beginning. There is still much more we can do together to support those who need our help,” she said.

The Vice-President of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, Sister Anita Bakana, expressed appreciation to the Knights and the Ladies Auxiliary for their generosity.

She described the donation as a timely intervention that will provide meaningful support to families facing challenges during the Lenten period.

The Knights of St. John International and their Ladies Auxiliary are widely recognised within the parish for their continued involvement in charitable activities, community support initiatives, and service to the Church.