Forum answers widow’s plea for assistance
EMOTIONAL Losalini Lomalomaibau was lost for words after her children’s school stationery were provided by the Pacific Islands Development Forum.
Ms Lomalomaibau, the wife of Usaia Niqilai who was killed in a horrific car accident in Tailevu last month, had published her story with this newspaper calling for assistance as she was struggling to send her children to school this year.
“My prayers have finally been answered,” she said.
The mother of four said the assistance provided by PIDF was timely.
She said PIDF had bought all the necessities needed for their children.
“Sending my children to school was my main worry and stress that bugged me after my husband’s death as we don’t have any family business or fixed income to depend on to support us.”
PIDF secretary general and former diplomat Solo Mara said the mother’s struggle affected them so much that her family became the first family to be assisted by PIDF.
“After all that they went through, it’s very pleasing to see the smile they put on their faces, hiding all their pains and sadness,” he said.
“It was overwhelming to witness the mother coming up and asking for help for the better future of her children as mostly when there is a crisis or something families do not want to show their struggles.”
He acknowledged this newspaper for publishing Ms Lomalomaibau’s story.
“I thank this newspaper for publishing this story as it touched all of us and we were determined and encouraged to assist them.”
He said PIDF used its social club money, collected by its employees, to purchase school supplies for the family.
Ms Lomalomaibau also highlighted that two people contacted her and were willing to help her financially.
“I have decided to use that money to buy food, pay bills and other costs that we will encounter.”
She said with the remaining money she would open a canteen to support her children in the future.