Grants for 33 charity organisations for income generation projects have been approved by the Vodafone ATH Fiji Foundation.

The foundation’s executive officer, Ambalika Devi, said out of 33, 11 charity clubs on Taveuni Island would receive $32,500.

“Projects range from village canteen, internet cafe, farming, fishing business, piggery and other entrepreneurial revenue generation projects,” Ms Devi said.

Projects are also for Vuna, Lavena, Qeleni, Navawakau, Waitabu and other youth and women’s club in Taveuni Island.

“After Tropical Cyclone Winston ravaged Fiji, the foundation together with our charity and network partners has collectively managed to provide social and rehabilitation services for over $5million and the efforts continues,” she said.

“Our assessments revealed that communities need to kick start with community projects to help them fast track recovery.”

During their visits to Taveuni, Qamea and Kioa islands they distributed clothing, mobility devices and medical supplies which were collective efforts of Vodafone New Zealand staff, the Spinal Injury Association and the foundation’s network partners. They immediately provided walkers, wheelchairs and crutches where needed.

The foundation and its charity partners continued with the relief, recovery and ‘Road to Resilience’ efforts which saw approval of over $125,000 worth of grants.

What the Foundation did

aftermath of Winston

Ms Devi said the foundation activated Vodafone Red Alert disaster response efforts immediately.

“The Foundation mobilised 400 volunteers, packed and distributed 1400 relief packs worth $350,000 to those mostly affected,” she said.

“700,000 Vodafone customers received free credit worth $3.5million to be connected to their loved ones.

“The community needs assessments also saw inbound of $1.2m TC Winston shipment that includes dignity packs, mobility devices, farming tools and equipment and other items from PhysioNet in United Kingdom.”

Timely assistance for

Kocoma Village, Qamea

The foundation handed over four wheelchairs and four walkers worth $6000 to Kocoma Village on Qamea Island.

The village youth group, Maunicake Club and Vuanimaba Women’s Club were recipients of $7500 for income generation, entrepreneurial and economic development projects.

Village co-ordinator and chairman of Kocoma development committee, Ilisoni Vakaloloma, said: “We only found out during the Foundation team’s visit that we can access help from them.

“We don’t get to access or receive such grants of this nature due to our remoteness. This will immensely help the women, youth and the village for generating revenue. The grant will also enable us to contribute towards Kocoma Village School which was badly damaged and children are studying in tents.”

At least 400 villagers will benefit from the foundation’s support, he said.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

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