March 10, 2003
updated June 27, 2003

Oblation Funds Aid Recovery from Cyclone in Fiji

Fiji field minister Adelyn Naidu (right) and Rajini Shankar (left) present Oblation aid to Beatrice Olson (center), Fiji Red Cross resource development manager.

Tropical Cyclone Ami devastated parts of Fiji on January 13 with tidal waves, floodwater, and winds up to 115 miles per hour. Vanua Levu, Fiji’s second largest island with a population of 145,000, was declared a natural disaster area by the Fijian government. The northern islands of Rabi and Taveuni were also affected.

Fourteen people were reported dead and three missing following the storm. About 2,400 structures were completely destroyed and 5,600 were partially damaged. Among these numbers are 118 schools. The estimated cost to repair or replace the damaged structures is nearly $8,000,000 USD ($15,000,000 FJD). Members and friends of Community of Christ in Fiji have all been accounted for and their homes are in tact.

On February 28, the Mission Support Fund Committee approved a request for $2,500 (nearly $5,000 FJD) from the Community of Christ Oblation Fund to be donated to the Fiji Red Cross to assist with recovery efforts in areas affected by Cyclone Ami. Specific attention will be given to providing school supplies for children as well as other educational assistance.

Food and other emergency supplies have already been flown to the northern and eastern islands of Fiji through the local government. The governments of Australia, New Zealand, Rarotonga, and France are also providing assistance to Fiji in its recovery efforts.

-Ralph Aona reporting