Fiji FA helps affected players, officials
The Fiji Football Association has analysed close to 400 applications for assistance from players and officials during their COVID-19 and Tropical Cyclone Harold survey.
Fiji FA president Rajesh Patel confirmed yesterday that they had gone through each application thoroughly. “There are some extreme cases whereby football seemed to be the only form of income earned while there are many other moderate cases,” he said.
“Our team worked hard in the survey and saw the extent of the effect of COVID-19 and
Cyclone Harold on players and officials in the country.
“I believe Fiji FA has a responsibility to reach out and assist the needs of those affected.
“We understand that each district will face their own challenges and we want to do everything necessary to provide them with support.”
Patel said Fiji FA applied for funding through the OFC Solidarity Fund, which was approved.
“We will submit our application for the funds and I urge those who have filled their application forms to be patient and we’ll get back to them soon.”
The OFC Solidarity Fund has been developed in order to support staff, volunteers, players, coaches, referees and the wider football community across Oceania during difficult times.
The grant, which is part of the OFC FIFA FORWARD funding, has been designed to cover four key areas, including food and hygiene packets, loss of income, medical allowances and selfisolation costs.
In addition, the OFC Solidarity Fund will also provide assistance to those countries that were directly affected by the Category 5 Tropical Cyclone Harold during this pandemic.