Wheelbarrow race marks 10 years supporting children with disabilities

The Frank Hilton Organization (FHO) has launched the 10th Amazing Wheelbarrow Race, marking a decade of fundraising and support for children with disabilities across Fiji as demand for specialised services continues to grow sharply.

Launching the event yesterday, FHO chief executive officer Sureni Perera said the race had grown from a simple idea into a major national movement supported by businesses, volunteers, diplomats and the wider community.

“What started as a late-night conversation has evolved into a powerful platform that brings together corporate leaders, volunteers, the diplomatic corps, and the wider public — all united in support of children and families who need it most,” Ms Perera said.

By launch day, 18 corporate teams had already confirmed participation, signalling strong support from the business sector.

The organisations include ANZ, BSP Bank, CJ Patel, Goodman Fielder, TFL, Pleass Global Limited, Harcourts, HFC and IHG among others.

The Hilton Home alone requires more than $300,000 annually to operate, with Government contributions covering only 10 per cent of costs.

The fundraiser remains a critical source of financial support for the organisation, which currently faces growing pressure from increasing demand for services.

FHO revealed that in 2025 alone, about 700 families accessed its services, with more than 66 per cent of children under the age of five.

During the same period, the organisation delivered close to 7000 direct contact sessions, many in communities where specialised services are limited.

Over the past three years, FHO recorded a 70 per cent increase in assessments and a 134 per cent increase in caseloads, resulting in waiting lists as demand continues to rise.

FHO remains the only organisation in Fiji providing a comprehensive range of specialised services including speech therapy, audiology, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, behavioural support, psychological assessments, learning support, residential care and special education.

All services for children are provided free of charge despite ongoing funding challenges.

The organisation receives approximately $1.1 million annually through the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, covering only 63 per cent of operational costs and leaving a 37 per cent funding gap.

The Hilton Home alone requires more than $300,000 annually to operate, with Government contributions covering only 10 per cent of costs.

The home supports children with high support needs who are at risk of abuse or neglect and have no family support.

Last year’s race raised $166,194, while this year FHO hopes to raise between $260,000 and $300,000.

“We are not asking for support out of sympathy,” Ms Perera said.

“We are asking for investment — investment in the future of children who, with the right support, can thrive and reach their full potential.”

“Quality of care is not optional — it is a fundamental obligation of any society that claims to value equity, inclusion, and human rights.”

FHO is now calling on more corporate partners and community members to join the race and help close the funding gap.

The 10th Amazing Wheelbarrow Race is expected to be one of the organisation’s biggest fundraising events yet as it celebrates a decade of impact supporting children and families across Fiji.