76 year-old stranded in Bomi county
By Jamesetta D Williams
GBAH JARKEH TOWN, Senjeh District, Bomi County – July 20, 2026 – A 76-year-old amputee, identified as Samuel Toe, is appealing to the Government of Liberia and humanitarian organizations for urgent assistance to return to his home in Maryland County after years of hardship in Bomi County.
Mr. Toe, a member of the Grebo tribe from southern Maryland County, was found sitting in a wheelchair along the streets of Gbah Jarkeh Town on Monday morning. Speaking to reporters, he said he has no shelter, no food, and no clothing, and has been forced to sleep in the open despite the heavy rains.
“My son, I don’t have a place to sleep, clothes to wear, or food to eat. I have no choice but to sleep in the open, even during this rainy season,” Mr. Toe lamented.»
According to Mr. Toe, he relocated to Bomi County in 1978 during the administration of former President William R. Tolbert to work as a rubber tapper. However, his life took a tragic turn after he was involved in an accident that resulted in the amputation of one of his legs.
“Unfortunately, I had an accident, and the only option was to have my leg amputated,” he recalled.»
Mr. Toe said he has no relatives in Bomi County and has been left to survive on his own. His only wish, he said, is to return to his home county and reunite with his people.
“I am appealing to the Government of Liberia, humanitarian organizations, and all compassionate Liberians to help take me back home to Maryland County,” he pleaded.»
Residents of Gbah Jarkeh Town described Mr. Toe’s condition as heartbreaking and are calling on the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, the Liberia National Red Cross Society, and other humanitarian organizations to intervene without delay.
Community leaders in Senjeh District said they have informed county authorities of Mr. Toe’s situation but are appealing for broader national support to provide him with food, temporary shelter, medical attention, and safe transportation back to Maryland County.
As Liberia prepares to celebrate its 179th Independence Day, advocates say Mr. Toe’s plight serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing elderly citizens and persons with disabilities, underscoring the need for stronger social protection and support systems across the country.