Families who have lost loved ones to the measles epidemic will receive financial assistance thanks to concerts held in New Zealand and Australia this month. 

According to an organiser of the "I Love Samoa" concert series, Michael Hickey, two concerts are being held in New Zealand and one in Australia.

He said that Lole Usoali'i, (a Samoan-New Zealander), had the idea to conduct a fundraising concert.

“Lole was in New Zealand at the time while the measles epidemic was unfolding here in Samoa,” he said.

Mr. Hickey added colleagues reached out wanting to get involved such as Tofilau Benna Sevealii-Siolo, Danny Leaoasavaii.

“The fundraising concerts are held in Auckland and Wellington, New Zealand and the Gold Coast in Australia," he said. 

“All the funds raised from the concerts will be policed and held by Sir Michael Jones and Alofa mo Samoa Trust and they are also in charge of bringing the funds and distributing in Samoa to measles affected families which accounts to more than 83 deaths.

“Sir Michael Jones has already been in Samoa and has already distributed earlier funds. It was really heartbreaking seeing young ones being affected by the measles epidemic.”

He said that seeing artists willing to give back for the children was overwhelming. 

“The concert in Samoa is free held at Gym1, Tuanaimato on 15th of February and doors open at 5pm and finish around 10pm for families that mean no alcohol because we want to promote a friendly and safe environment," he said. 

“Samoa can expect performances from: Ardijah, Iakopo, Kas the Feelstyle Futialo, Poetik, Annie Crummer, Lavina Williams, Raze, Elijah Tavai, Lani Alo, and Eme Eteru.

“A message we would like to convey is that they are not alone because there are our people, a lot of brothers and sisters overseas they are expressing their love by donating their time to show that they care and that support is there.”

Mr. Hickey also added that the concert in Samoa is also an opportunity for them to announce publicly the money that was raised but also to say thanks to the artists and everyone who donated their time.

“We acknowledge the amazing people and companies who have donated their services for free to us in producing this free family event for Samoa: Samoa Airways, Tanoa Hotel, TV1 Samoa Broadcasting Corporation Limited, Digicel, Budweiser, Naydith Events Hirage, TCB Security, Urban Sound, SSFA, Pure Pacific Water, and Eden's Edge.”