Tears of joy and hearts full of gratitude greeted a team of Good Samaritans, who has brought tremendous relief to ten families in Samoa, ahead of White Sunday. 

The team of officials from local companies, Betham Brothers Enterprises Ltd (B.B.E.), Trans Pacific Travel, and Budget Car Rentals, visited ten families on Wednesday to offer a helping hand. Nine have had their plight featured in the Samoa Observer's Village Voice.

The nine Village Voice families included Telesia Paulo, from Leauva'a; Siaoru Faamagalo from Sataoa; Tepora Tausaga from Sa'anapu; Mati Toeta from Sa'anapu; Losi Matua from Salamumu; Lauiva Tau from Matautu, Falealili; Fiailoa Sao from Lotofaga, Safata; Laulauga Faitoatasi from Satalo and Maiava Vesi from Salani, Falealili.

The tenth family was that of Maka Faleofi from Malie, identified by one of the staff from B.B.E.

Each family received $600 cash, food items worth $500 and two mattresses bringing. The total donation costs $11,000.

A representative from B.B.E., Tina Betham-Pita, said they pleased to have been able to help the families.

“The community helps our company to grow," she said. "So for us it is quite important to give back to them which is why we started assisting vulnerable families four years ago."

She was in tears while saying that she wished that they could do more to help the families.

“All the glory and honour must be given back to God for giving our company the resources to be able to do this. We also acknowledge the Samoa Observer for the opportunity in highlighting these families who are in need.

“We hope that our company can encourage other companies in Samoa to do the same for other families because every little thing counts.”

Another representative from B.B.E., Ruta Williams, said the donation is part of bringing joy to the families who are not fortunate to have a grand celebration of White Sunday.

“We hope that the gifts we brought for the chosen families will brighten up the smiles of the children whose special day is coming up on Sunday.”

One of the recipients of the donation, Mrs. Tau, who is a mother five, thanked the local companies for their support.

“In all honesty, I did not think that anyone would offer any assistance to a stranger especially not expect anything in return," she said.

“I have nothing to repay your kindness but all I have are prayers. I truly believe that God holds the blessings and may he continue to bless your companies for you kind hearts.”