A father-of-six has given thanks for the gifts of the land and sea as the family on which the family relies for subsistence despite the heavy workload it demands of him. 

On an early Saturday morning, Tuepi Vole was preparing a meal for his grandfather and children when the Village Voice team visited his house.

The family’s home is situated on the south-west coast of Upolu, over 37 kilometres from Apia via the Main South Coast Road.

It has been seven months since Mr. Vole and his family moved to their current residence; an open Samoan-style house. 

The 31-year-old’s house is located near the main road but can only be accessed by walking through a surrounding plantation.

“Our family depends on the land and sea resources for survival,” he said.

He added that despite not being employed, his family is still able to secure food from the fish in the sea and the vegetables and crops available through their plantation.

“As Samoans, our lifestyle is quite simple, laid back which is why I truly believe that utilising resources that are available to families is very significant,” he said. 

“I am proud of being a fisherman, at nights I go out fishing and return home with lots of fish to sell in front of our home.

“I admit it’s not an easy labour but it is rewarding and my family is not deprived of food. You may want to buy chicken or imported food but fish is free and the food you grow is also free.

“I am also a farmer, I grow vegetables such as pumpkins and not forgetting we have a large taro and banana plantation. It is true what they say, ``if don't sweat, you can't eat.”

Mr. Vole said he has four children in school.

“We are very thankful that a village vehicle is used to pick up the students of those families that do not own cars to drop them off to school and pick them up after,” he said.

“I am also looking after my grandfather, he wanted to spend time with us and the children, his children overseas also send money so we can look after him.

“Recently, we needed money to pay for our water bill and thankfully our relatives overseas aided us financially.”

Furthermore, he said that even though their family has water, they are in need of a water tank to store water and save money having to pay the bills.

If you are willing to help the family of Mr. Vole please contact the number 7292351.