In the remote village of Naisisili in the Yasawa group, a guardian raising four grandchildren says government assistance has brought much-needed relief and hope to his household.
Tevita Ratu, who has taken on the responsibility of caring for the grandchildren after the separation of their parents, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support provided by the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection, and the Ministry of Education.
Mr Ratu is currently receiving monthly assistance under the Social Welfare programme administered by the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection. He said the financial support has been a lifeline, particularly as he is unemployed and solely responsible for raising the children.
“The assistance has helped us meet our basic needs and eased the burden on our family. The money received from the Social Welfare scheme is directly paid for the boarding fee for my grandchildren. I am truly grateful to the Government for remembering families like ours in the maritime zones,” he said.
In addition, Mr Ratu is also a beneficiary of the Government’s $200 Back to School Assistance programme delivered through the Ministry of Education. He acknowledged the Ministry for ensuring that children in maritime and remote communities are not left behind when it comes to access to education.
He said the Back-to-School Assistance has helped cover essential school expenses, allowing the children under his care to begin the academic year with confidence and the necessary supplies.
“I thank the Government for these initiatives that make a real difference in the lives of people in maritime zones, without this assistance, it would be very difficult for us,” Mr Ratu said.
The support provided through the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection reflects the Government’s broader commitment to safeguarding vulnerable families and strengthening social protection systems nationwide. Meanwhile, assistance from the Ministry of Education underscores ongoing efforts to promote inclusive education and equal opportunities for all children, regardless of their geographical location.