The common items requested by many Fijian families in need following the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic includes adult and children’s diapers, baby milk and groceries.

This is according to a non-governmental organisation, Being Helping Hands Fiji, that has been assisting families in need during this crisis.

Being Helping Hands Fiji West co-ordinator Cedrick Steven said they had distributed more than a 100 food packs in the division to date.

In Lautoka alone, Mr Steven said they had distributed about 50 to 60 food packs.

Distribution was also done in Nadi and Ba.

Food rations ready to be delivered to recipients by Being Helping Hands Fiji. Photo.Supplied

“Within Lautoka we have gone as far as Viseisei, the interior of Saru, Vaivai, Tomuka and even in the city areas like Natokawaqa and Kashmiri also and towards Ba there is another co-ordinator handling that side,” he said.

While they have tried to help as much as they can, it depends on supplies from silent donors and co-ordinators.

“Some just call and say they need help. But we have a list of those who had asked earlier and we have to tell them to be patient because we don’t actually have many sponsors because it is mostly from the pockets of the co-ordinators and silent donors,” he said.

He said background checks were essential when reviewing requests for assistance because they had also experienced non-genuine requests.

Edited by Caroline Ratucadra

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