Father appeals for assistance

By Adel Fruean 02 August 2020, 2:00PM

A 42-year-old man has appealed for assistance to build a better home for his wife and seven children.

Salatolu Vaimasenuu, who lives with his family on the east coast of Upolu and sells coconuts to make a living, told the Samoa Observer that his family continues to experience financial difficulties and they are not in a position to address their living conditions as their coconut sales are not consistent.

He collects between 50 to 100 coconuts to sell in front of their home, which is located more than 54 kilometres from Apia through the main East Coast Road.

“My main chore is to collect coconuts, if I can collect 100, we can get $50,” he said. 

“If we are lucky we can get $120 but in all honesty that hardly happens because there are times no one buys our coconuts.

“When there is absolutely no money, I take up a part time job as a hard labourer for some construction work but that also hardly happens.”

In a bid to address the family’s financial difficulties, Mr Vaimasenuu recently planted a taro plantation, though it will be months before they can harvest.

The family’s home was designed and built based on the traditional Samoan house architecture, though with tarpaulin walls and corrugated iron roof.

Mr Vaimasenuu dreams of his children growing up in good living conditions, such as a safe home that protects them against strangers.

“I want my children to grow up in better living conditions, not only for my daughter’s safety but for all of my children,” he added. “Nowadays, you never know what could happen whether strangers will invade our home and hurt the children. We are thankful for the supplied water from our village’s spring but there are times when it goes off.”

The family also wants electricity connected to their home, but they do not have money for that expense, which would be added to their plans to send their children to school.

“I also have to send my children to school and that is another added cost hence why I am determined in getting income in any way I can.”

If you are willing to help the family you can contact Mr. Vaimasenuu on: 7276072.

By Adel Fruean 02 August 2020, 2:00PM

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