S.V.S.G. Juniors spearhead water tank donations

By Adel Fruean 21 December 2018, 12:00AM

The Samoa Victim Support Group Juniors have given back to the community through the distribution of water tanks.

SVSG Juniors’ president, Carmenita Solaese, said funding for the water tanks was raised over three months through Zumba, the Hope Concert as well as donations from individuals and companies.

“As young volunteers for SVSG under the SVSG Juniors sub-group, we have watched, observed and marveled at the magnitude of the work being carried out by SVSG for our community in need, let alone, the operation of the only shelter facility in Samoa for abused and vulnerable children, the Campus of Hope.

“We wanted to make a difference by taking up casework assistance, child protection, court support or shelter operations as per SVSG’s mandate, but rather, in how we can give back to the community that has supported and entrusted SVSG to be a service provider.

“The idea was reaffirmed after seeing the children at the Campus struggle with their daily routine on one particular day when they were without water,” she said in an interview with Samoa Observer. 

The lack of access to clean water is a struggle faced by many families in Samoa, added Carmenita, consequently the decision by the SVSG Juniors to raise funds.

“SVSG’s Welfare Database has found many of our families in need of welfare assistance and therein laid the focus of SVSG Juniors fundraising drive to give back to the community.

“Our target was to supply 10 10,000 litre water tanks to 10 families under the SVSG database in need of clean water.

“We acknowledge with gratitude the support from our donors, both here and abroad, who have made this clean water project a reality,” she added.

The decision by the Rotomould Water Tank at Fugalei to become a partner in the project was also commended, with Carmenita making special mention of the company’s general manager, Fred Yazadani. 

“From zumba fundraising, we were able to secure one 10,000 litre water tank. The Hope concert late November and the donations from our supporting partners enabled us to reach our target of 10 10,000 litre water tanks.

“Chan Mow and family donated for one water tank, May Schwenke donated another, whereas Maurice and Elanit Mitry of Sydney, Australia donated three water tanks. Fittings and cement for all the tanks have been provided through this project.

“Three families at Malaemalu Falealili and one from Faleula have had their water tanks installed, with delivery to others still progressing. The SVSG (junior youth groups from these villages have helped with the cement work for the tanks,” she added.

The role of the mother organisation SVSG in guiding them to serve the community in need was also acknowledged.

“As Christmas is upon us, let us keep the spirit of giving alive through services to others. It is the least we could do, for unto us, a child is born, the greatest gift of all,” she said.

By Adel Fruean 21 December 2018, 12:00AM

Trending Stories

Samoa Observer

Upgrade to Premium

Subscribe to
Samoa Observer Online

Enjoy unlimited access to all our articles on any device + free trial to e-Edition. You can cancel anytime.

>