Mother tells of water and everyday challenges

By Nefertiti Matatia 29 May 2018, 12:00AM

For three years, Fa’alua Skelton, has had to struggle without a proper supply of running water.

It is a challenging issue for the unemployed mother of four from Aleisa.

She depends on her rusty water gallons for water storage, which raises all sorts of health issues.

Living in a rundown house is an additional load. The iron roofing is rusty so the rain water collected from there cannot be used for drinking.

Speaking to the Village Voice team Mrs. Skelton shared this was never the life she wanted for her children.

“There are six of us in total that are living in this house,” she said.

“It is hard to have a water supply set up because everything would cost us money. And money is something that we don’t have.

“We really need a water tank and in that way it is much safer to drink and it gives us assurance that even though it will not rain for a week or so we have a water tank.

“Most believe that poverty comes our way due to laziness but we are working the land, when the children are prepared for school then we are no longer home throughout the whole day. We are at our plantation working.”

Their family relies on the land for their upkeep.

“All my children attend school. I have three kids that are in primary and the eldest child that is currently in College.

“Everything that we earn depends on what we are able to grow on the land, but there is always a time for everything. Doesn’t mean when we plant our crops today, it will be ready for harvest tomorrow.”

Furthermore, they do not have stable electricity; they have an extension cord that is connected to their neighbour’s house.

“We used to live in Tulaele but we have moved here to Aleisa to make use of this land. My husband is from here.

“Life is hard and I understand that the cost of living is rising, but there is nothing that we can do about it. Every day is a battle for survival for us and my children, making sure there is something to eat. Also saving whatever income we have for the next day.”

For anyone that is willing to help Mrs. Skelton and her family contact this number 7731559.

By Nefertiti Matatia 29 May 2018, 12:00AM
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