The Marist Fathers in New Zealand are accepting donations to alleviate people’s suffering and aid the re-establishment of their lives in Fiji.
New Zealand Marist Mission promoter, Fr Tim Duckworth, SM, confirmed the move on Tuesday evening.
“The people of Fiji are resilient, but in many cases will have to start again from the foundations,” Fr Duckworth said.
“With so many communities and villages flattened, local infrastructure is really stretched.
“Frequently people have lost everything: homes, schools, churches, food sources, livelihood, drinkable water and crops.
“It is going to take a lot of help to get up and running again.”
Fr Duckworth’s initiative comes in response to the massive trail of destruction left by monster Cyclone, “Winston”.
Late last week, the New Zealand province of the Society of Mary made a substantial donation to the society’s Oceania province.
One of the areas badly hit was “Tutu”, the rural training centre in Tavenui, where 22 buildings have either been partially or completely destroyed.
Tutu was established in 1969 and helps people become more autonomous – training them to return home to farm their own land.
It offers five courses catering for young farmers, married couples, young single women, and new parents.
The Pacific Island Famers Organisation Network has said the Tutu “experiment” has been highly successful.
“The urgent needs (for Tutu) right now are $125,000 building materials, and food for 25 families and 72 course participants,” said Fr Pio Fong Waqavotuwale, SM.
St John’s College has also sustained extensive damage.
Those wishing to donate are encouraged to contact Fr Tim Duckworth:
- Email: duckworth@smnz.org.nz
- Phone: 04 499 3060
100 per cent of all donations will be sent to the Marist Fathers’ mission in Fiji.
Any administration costs will be met by the Society of Mary New Zealand and one third of all donations is tax-deductible.
Sources
- Society of Mary
- Image: Marist Oceania Provincial Administration (supplied)
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