School fees worry father

By Fetalai Tuilulu’u 10 March 2017, 12:00AM

Every family goes through their own set of problems.

Toleafoa Pepe Tanielu from the village of Siusega is no exception.

But the father of five believes that whatever challenges we face, they can all be overcome by love and family care. 

He admits that life is very tough.

 “Life was a lot simpler back in days but now as I get older, I understand how tough life has become,” he said.

“It’s not tough for just my family; every village family goes through the same issues every now and then.” 

Money is a major hurdle for the 63-year-old.

“We do not have enough money for basic needs and the children’s school needs as well,” he told the Village Voice. 

“We try our best everyday but our children’s fees for this semester are due.

His wife works and she earns $80 a week.

Toleafoa said this money is not enough and they need help because they have a child attending the Marine School. His fees need to be paid. It’s $800.

 “Right now the issue that everyone is dealing with is the high cost of living,” Toleafoa said. 

“To tell you the truth it’s not easy to make a lot of money in Samoa, especially in the villages.

“We have a lot to contribute and if we do not have money then that’s it for us. 

“I know we make do with what we have but money is needed the most because of our children’s education.”

Aside from his wife’s income, Toleafoa has a banana patch.

“We sell our bananas and we make some money from it,” he said.

“Still it’s tough. Money wise, we struggle a lot.”

Lastly, Toleafoa said he is believing for a Good Samaritan to help sponsor his son’s fees of $800.

By Fetalai Tuilulu’u 10 March 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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