The film launch of ‘Moana: Rising of the Sea’ production which took place just over a week ago has raised well over $25,000 tala for the Fijian children who were victims of cyclone Winston.

The event, which had Apollo Cinema overflowing with people was a success as members of corporate bodies enjoyed the sponsored drinks from Vailima Breweries while making donations and bidding on the amazing auction prizes.

The idea of the event came from the well-known producer and director Seiuli Allan Alo with assistance from Fiji Airways and the Tanoa Tusitala Hotel.

The finalized amount raised from the fundraiser was not available because funds are still coming in through pledges but Seiuli assured the Samoa Observer that it will be well over 25,000 tala.

Once all pledges are in, the money will be sent over to the organization ‘Save the Children Fiji’ who will manage the distribution.

Cecil Leger the Samoan manager of Fiji Airways told Samoa Observer during an interview at the event why they had opted to help the children of Fiji.

 “Our focus has been the children because the government has already received millions of dollars in aid which has been channeled into various affected areas,” Mr. Leger said.

“We’d rather focus on the children so this money can be spent for their needs, whether it be for counseling to get over the trauma, or just the basic necessities for their schools and livelihoods.”

But none of this would be possible without the support of the people of Samoa who lent a helping hand.

Companies in Samoa opened their hearts wide to lend support for the worthy cause.

“We had companies come on board who donated cash, companies who came and donated the food and drinks, and even Apollo Cinemas donated the venue for free which is something that they normally don’t do,” Mr. Leger said. “We have been very thankful that the companies and individuals have come and opened their hearts and dug deep to support the event.”