Hotels raise $12,000 for Lautoka shelter

Three FNPF-owned IHG Fiji Hotels has raised $12,000 by converting everyday guest experiences into direct community support.

The funds were raised by donating 100 per cent of Friday coffee sales towards the cause as well a percentage of sales from selected desserts, spa treatments and cocktails.

IHG Hotels and Resorts Regional General Manager, Fiji and Pacific, Lachlan Walker, said the funds were raised to support Daulomani Safe Home, a locally led, inclusive charitable shelter supporting vulnerable people in and around Lautoka.

Speaking on the 'Cup of Kindness' initiative, Mr Walker said hospitality does not operate in isolation from the communities around Fiji.

"When guests enjoy a coffee, they are helping meet immediate needs beyond our hotel gates," Mr Walker said.

"It also reflects ‘IHG’s Journey to Tomorrow’ responsible business plan, our commitment to care for people and communities, and to deliver ‘True Hospitality for Good’ through actions that make a measurable difference at the local level.”

Based out of Lautoka, Daulomani Safe Home provides temporary accommodation, safety and day-to-day care for women and children, single mothers, the elderly, people with disabilities, those experiencing homelessness, and members of the LGBT+ community.

The charitable shelter relied heavily on donations to help meet daily operational and basic needs such as safe housing, sanitation and consistent supplies.

"Funds raised will be used to purchase priority items directly from Daulomani Safe Home’s needs list, ensuring the contribution is targeted and immediately useful for residents," Mr Walker said.

Founder of Daulomani Home, Edwina Biyau said such support goes straight to what keeps the shelter running day to day.

"Essentials such as bedding, hygiene items and items for children make a direct difference to comfort, safety and stability for the people in our care," Ms Biyau said.

"When those basics are covered, we can focus more of our time and resources on support, recovery and getting people back on their feet.”

Daulomani Safe Home currently supports around 65 residents across two sites, including 17 children.