Nine families whose plight were highlighted in the Village Voice section of the Samoa Observer have received early White Sunday gifts.

The gifts were organised by Betham Brothers Enterprises Ltd (B.B.E.), Trans Pacific Travel, and Budget Car Rentals. 

The families included Telesia Paulo, from Leauvaa; Tepora Tausaga from Saanapu; Mati Toeta from Saanapu; Losi Matua from Salamumu; Lauiva Tau from Matautu, Falealili; Fiailoa Sao from Lotofaga, Safata; Laulauga Faitoatasi from Satalo; Maiava Vesi from Salani; Siauro Famagalo from Sataoa.

They were chosen by this newspaper while the three companies raised funds in order to sponsor the initiative. Village Voice is published in the Sunday Samoan edition of the newspaper and focuses on families needing help.

Earlier this week, each family received $600 cash, food items worth $500 and two mattresses bringing the total donation amount to $11,000. 

A representative from B.B.E., Ruta Williams said that one of the aims of donating to vulnerable families is to assist them in preparations for White Sunday.

“The gifts are especially for the children as they celebrate their special day on Sunday, it’s all about bringing joy to the families who are not fortunate to have access to financial support in order to provide for their families,” she said.

Ms. Williams spoke on behalf of B.B.E.’s Managing Director, Fanene Mark Betham, and his wife to convey a message of hope to the families who are in need.

One of the recipients, Saeni Vesi, spoke on behalf her husband Maiava Vesi who was not at home when the team from B.B.E. visited their family.

“We thank everyone who has given the assistance needed for our family, from staff members, to the owners and also Samoa Observer for their Village Voice programme.”

The 40-year-old mother of seven said that their family will have a joyous White Sunday celebration thanks to the gifts from the companies.

Another recipients of the gifts, Faitoatasi Olano spoke on behalf of his wife Laulauga Faitoatasi to acknowledge the assistance given to their family.

“We are in shock to be honest; we did not expect something like this to happen. I have never experienced anything like this in my life like receiving blessings from other people who had the hearts to help others who were not fortunate to have a lot of things.”

A mother of four, Tepora Tausaga from Saanapu was also one of the beneficiaries; she was filled with joy and gratitude towards the gifts they received.

“The money we have received will help buy my children’s White Sunday outfits and especially cook them a proper meal because it’s their special day.

“May God bless all the kind hearts that have made this possible, your help is greatly appreciated.”

Another recipient, Tufa Matua who spoke on behalf of his wife Losi Matua from Salamumu who was not at home when the officials visited their family thanked the good Samaritans for the once in a lifetime opportunity.

The 53-year-old father of ten said that their family was not planning anything for White Sunday because of the lack of financial support. 

“I have nothing valuable to repay your kindness but all I have are prayers, I truly believe that God will bless those who give because Jesus himself said: 'it is more blessed to give than to receive.’

“In Proverbs 11:25 ‘A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.’