Headline: Local efforts to support cyclone-affected families
Six containers filled with non perishable foods, water and other supplies will today be shipped to Tonga as part of a community relief effort, Labour’s Pacific Affairs spokesperson and Mangere MP Su’a William Sio says.
The Ha’apai Relief Committee was established last week with the aim of providing family to family and community to community support to villages in devastated by Cyclone Ian.
“My colleague Carol Beaumont and I have committed to providing assistance to the group and plan to spearhead on-going efforts to get further aid to those struggling with the aftermath of the cyclone,” Su’a William Sio said.
Carol Beaumont said what had been achieved in just a few days had been amazing and was a result of the commitment of the group, led by Jenny Salesa, the Tongan representative from the Council’s Mayoral Fund for the Pacific and the generosity of the Tongan and wider community.
“As well as the generosity of individuals we have seen a number of companies support this project, including Matson Shipping (containers) and Progressive Enterprises, which has provided seven pallets of food and water.”
Su’a William Sio said the group was now seeking to fill another five containers and donations of non perishable food and water could be left at the committee’s base, the Tongan Methodist Church in Orly Avenue, Mangere.
“Cash donations to support our Tongan neighbours through Red Cross and Oxfam can be also be made by phone 0800 600 700, or text HELP to 4847 for an automatic $3 donation.”
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