Selling coconuts to support his family, Paras Ram, said would not stop his family from celebrating Diwali.

The former Air Terminal Services (ATS) catering worker said despite the inappreciable income he received from his coconut sales daily; he had spared some money for the celebration.

But this time it will not be like the other Diwali celebrations where he invites friends over to his place.

The father of five children said being a laid off worker was very challenging, especially trying to put food on the table.

“The income I received from selling coconuts along the roadside doesn’t satisfy our needs and wants,” he said.

Another former ATS staff, Dharbin Deo, who is currently doing some private jobs to support his family said he had set aside $80 for Diwali.

“When I was working before with ATS, we would invite all our iTaukei and indo-Fijian friends and their families to come home and celebrate with us and the income I received could cater all that,” he said.

“But now it is just my family and a few of my friends for this Diwali.

“I do a little construction work and also cut grass around the neighbourhood to help support my family,” the father of two children added.

Edited by Selita Bolanavanua

Feedback:  mereleki.nai@fijisun.com.fj