American Samoa's assistance tops $300,000

By Joyetter Feagaimaali'i 13 December 2019, 8:55PM

More than $300,000 tala has been raised to combat the measles crisis in American through a fundraising initiative - “Fesoasoani Alofa mo Samoa Fundraising” - spearheaded by Governor Lolo Matalasi Moliga to assist with the measles response in the Country. 

The Department of Public Safety Commissioner, Le’i Sonny Thompson, confirmed on Friday that the running tally of donations stands at USD$131,932.

The fundraising will come to an end on Saturday at 4pm. (Samoa Time).

Le'i told the Samoa Observer they were overwhelmed with the support by the residents and businesses. 

"Although American Samoa is going through the state of emergency for the same reason, that did not divert the focus of the fundraising committee," he said. 

“We made a commitment and we’re making sure we adhere to the mission behind the fundraising. A reminder was sent out to the A.S.G.’s workforce of their contribution." 

In an earlier interview Governor Lolo said that while the two Samoa are separated by the Pacific: “We are one”. 

The Governor said he has already reached out to Prime Minister Tuilaepa Dr. Sailele Malielegaoi.

“I reached out to the Prime Minister yesterday and gave comforting words to soothe his spirit as the country faces the deadly virus," Governor Lolo said.

"In this time of need; we must lend assistance to Samoa as we are one. American Samoa is on standby to offer any assistance to Samoa during this difficult time.

“We cannot sit idle while our brothers in Samoa are facing hardships. We must assist as we are one."

To date the Government's patrol boat the Nafanua II has made three trips to the U.S. Territory for 288 oxygen tanks to assist the Ministry of Health with their oxygen supply at a time when measles-related pneumonia is on the rise. 

“All [American Samoa Government] employees are to contribute USD$10 USD ($26) deputy directors USD$100 USD ($260) and directors and C.E.O.s USD$300 ($780)," a directive sent to public servants read. 

The number of Government employees in the American territory, including semi-autonomous agencies, totals 6,804.

 

By Joyetter Feagaimaali'i 13 December 2019, 8:55PM

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