The recent distribution of food supplies has brought joy to more than 3000 families affected by Cyclone Tomas in Fiji.
This distribution was co-ordinated and initiated by local radio station Apna 990 which raised more then $133,000 from the New Zealand public in a 40-hour radio-thon few weeks ago.
Station general manager Shaiyaz Mohammed travelled to Fiji after the fundraising and was personally involved in the distribution efforts in Vanua Levu, the area worst affected by Cyclone Tomas which recently devastated the region.
Mohammed said the Radio Apna 990 team successfully distributed basic food items in over 30 different areas in Labasa and other areas around Vanua Levu.
He said people had generously supported the people of Fiji. Mohammed was accompanied on the trip by presenter Dharmend Shyam. They were assisted by local volunteers and Fijian authorities during the three-day distribution.
Mohammed said relief supplies comprised basic food items like flour, rice, dhal, milk powder, biscuits, onions, potatoes, salt, tin fish, noodles and tea packets other items included washing and bath soaps.
He said the funds were transferred from the Bank of New Zealand to New Zealand-based Lotus Foreign Exchange account which provided a better rate. Mohammed said that the funds were than transferred into Fiji-based Punjas Ltd account, suppliers of basic food items to Fiji's hurricane victims.
This is the second time since 2009 that the station has done the radio–thon. In 2009, the station raised around $200,000 and distributed basic food items to flood victims in Lautoka, Ba, Nadi, and other areas around the western division.
Mohammed thanks those people who contributed in its 40-hour radio-thon and said without the support of people in New Zealand they would not have given basic food items to the 3000 affected families.
* More photos in picture gallery
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