By Bill W. Cooper
Family members that have been and were beneficiaries of Jeety’s generosity during this festive season expressed that, “His contributions have made a real difference in the lives of many.”
According to them, this Indian philanthropist understands the challenges Liberians face and is always willing to lend a helping hand.
“We are fortunate to have someone like him in our midst, and we look forward to many years of his kind gestures and the improving if our country,” they shouted in real appreciation.
Upjit Singh Sachdeva, the owner of Jeety Rubber LLC and Salala Rubber Corporation (SRC), celebrated Christmas by identifying with thousands of Liberians at various locations, including South Beach, and Kakata Prisons, and his newly acquired SRC in Margibi.
This is a routine he has been bent on since he arrived in Liberia which is aimed to spread joy and goodwill at all times and in commemoration of this year’s festive season, he continued his distribution of food, gifts distribution and heartfelt messages of hope, patriotism and unity to Liberians.
On Wednesday, December 25, 2024, he provided hot meal, soft drink and water to some 3,000 inmates across the Monrovia Central Prison (South Beach) and the Kakata prison, as well as to disadvantaged youths (Zogoes) on Center Street, while 5,000 gifts were also given to children across all camps of the SRC plantation.
Popularly known as Jeety, his commitment to the local community had never gone unnoticed as it has always been greeted with cheers by both the inmates and superintendents and prison staff who continue to extol him for always thinking about them even on major holidays.
At the Monrovia South Beach, Jeety and his team made their way to the Kakata prison, where they, again fed the inmates, who often felt forgotten during holidays season by their families and other relatives.
At all locations, Jeety stated, “This is a day of joy, a day to celebrate togetherness as such, giving back to the people of Liberia always brings me joy. It is my way of showing appreciation for the support and love I have received from this beautiful country.”
“Also, Christmas is a time for forgiveness and new beginnings, and no matter your past, there is always a chance for a brighter future. I believe in your potential to change and contribute positively to society, especially your country, Liberia,” he added.
Jeety, known for his selfless contributions to society, began his involvement in prison outreach over six to seven years ago, when he started feeding hundreds of Liberians at his Vai Town Residence.
Learning about the challenges faced by incarcerated individuals, Jeety then started distributing food at the prison, including the feeding of some zogoes, and subsequently took his goodwill to some of the counties, including Margibi.
Since then, Jeety has made it his mission to ensure that no inmate feels forgotten or excluded during any time of gratitude and togetherness (holidays), realizing that many incarcerated individuals are separated from their families due to crimes committed.
Like this year’s Christmas, Jeety, every holiday, leads his team to provide a memorable experience for prisoners, working tirelessly to prepare and pack the meals, ensuring that the recipients receive a delicious and heartfelt package to brighten their day.
Jeety’s commitment to the welfare of the inmates extends beyond the festivities, as he has, on numerous occasions, identified with the inmates through the provision of eating plates or bowls, running water, and other essential materials.
Meanwhile, the celebrations of Christmas also continued at his newly bought Salala Rubber Corporation (SRC), where Jeety invited employees and their families to join in the festivities, through the distribution of gifts to their children.
The plantation, which is one of the largest rubber producers in Weala, Margibi, has been engulfed with series of challenges but since the taking over by Jeety, it has been a significant source of employment for many in the region.
Families gathered at various entry point of each camp, Jeety moved through the crowd, engaging with employees and their families, sharing stories, and expressing his gratitude for their hard work and dedication.
“Today is about family, community, and giving back. So, I am proud to be part of this community, and I want to ensure that everyone feels valued and appreciated. Your hard work is what makes this company successful, and I am grateful for each and every one of you,” he added.