A Good Samaritan answers call for help

By Fetalai Tuilulu’u 22 March 2017, 12:00AM

Prayers do get answered. And when an unexpected opportunity arises for that to happen, one can only cry tears of joy.

That’s exactly how it was for the family of Tafale Simatautu, from the village Toamua, yesterday.

It happened when a Good Samaritan, Tasesa Lam Sam, turned up with gifts and a luggage full of toys and supplies – including cups, plates, cushions, towels and clothing - for the 27-year-old mother and her family. 

Last week, Tafale’s plight was featured in the Village Voice section of the Samoa Observer.

“As a mother, I do my best to take care of my family but the cost of living is expensive,” she told the Village Voice. “I hear this from so many people and I can identify with them.”

She says the government has got to be able to help.

“I’m asking the government to have mercy on us. It doesn’t matter what fancy developments the government does, we are really struggling. It’s so hard.”

Tafale said their motivation is their children.

“I look at my children and I tell myself I have to work harder for them."

 “We just got our water three weeks ago and are very thankful. We were able to build a simple house even if it’s not good enough.” 

Mr. Lam Sam said he was deeply moved when he read the story and saw the photos of Tafale’s home.

 “Firstly I’m a big fan of the Village Voice,” he said.

“I’m sure that everyone has heard it over and over again that Samoans have to work together to help each other." 

“But the problems most of us face these days do not compare to what these people are going through everyday."

 “So for me, coming here today with these supplies is about walking the talk, by showing that we are genuinely concerned about people’s problems."

“I just hope the little gifts do help this family in any way.”

When Mr. Lam Sam turned up, Tafale wasn’t at home.

But her husband, Peniati, was one grateful man.

“This is God’s love for us,” he said. “I do believe we’re not alone and I thank God that there are some people who truly care for us."

 “I want to say thank you so much to this Samaritan for what he has offered.”

Peniati also thanked the Samoa Observer for the Village Voice.

“To be honest sometimes we are embarrassed, to ask for help,” he said.

“But thank you Samoa Observer for offering families like ours an opportunity to voice and share the struggles with go through.”

By Fetalai Tuilulu’u 22 March 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

Upgrade to Premium

Subscribe to
Samoa Observer Online

Enjoy unlimited access to all our articles on any device + free trial to e-Edition. You can cancel anytime.

>