On 20 and 21 February Category 5 Severe Tropical Cyclone
Winston cut a path of destruction across Fiji’s islands blowing off roofs,
flooding rivers and bringing down trees and power lines. At its peak, the
Cyclone was estimated to have sustained winds of around 230kmph (143 mph), gusting to 325
kmph (202 mph), making it one of the most severe cyclones ever to hit the South Pacific.

A destructive force of this strength brings devastation to any country. However the heavy reliance rural Fijian communities, such as our partners in the Dawasamu District and Moturiki, have on their land makes the challenges they face even more dire. Most rural communities have open water systems, meaning their supply of safe drinking water is now in question. As well as having such a strong cultural and spiritual connection to their land, many rural communities rely on generational plantations for the majority of their food supply, trading small amounts for a small income. The destruction of these is not only a loss of homes and income for communities, but a complete loss of their ability to  sustain themselves. Coastal communities were not only exposed to high speed, destructive winds but also faced tidal surges. These powerful rushes of water, some up to forty feet high, forced many communities to frantically evacuate to higher ground suddenly, leaving them with nothing. These vulnerable communities require extensive emergency aid, they need to be supplied with food, drinking water, shelter and clothing to be able to start the mammoth task of rebuilding their communities and their lives. As we have learnt from Fijian communities, goals are achieved through a large amount of people completing small tasks for a bigger picture. It doesn’t matter what contribution you make, every effort accumulates into raising the funds we need for the people of Fiji to rebuild their lives. The Fijian people are some of the most resilient, generous and happy go lucky people anyone could be lucky enough to meet, let’s borrow some Fijian spirit and help them get through this.

‘For Fiji, ever Fiji, let our voices ring with pride, For Fiji, ever Fiji, her name hail far and wide, A land of freedom, hope and glory, to endure whatever befall’ –Fijian
National Anthem

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.