BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
What began as a friendship formed during high school years has now become a mission of compassion and support for women and girls affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila in Sasamunga, North Choiseul.
For four close friends, Anna Grace Aitorea, Goretti Pala, Alice A. Hou and Mary A. Inasimae, the devastation caused by the cyclone was more than just another disaster story. It was personal.
When Cyclone Maila struck parts of Choiseul and Western Province, Goretti Pala was in her home village of Sasamunga, witnessing firsthand the destruction left behind.
Through phone calls and conversations with her friends in Honiara, she shared the struggles faced by families, especially women and girls who were in urgent need of basic sanitary and hygiene supplies.
Moved by the situation, the group quickly came together with one goal: to provide assistance where it was needed most.
Rather than focusing only on food and general relief items, the friends decided to support a need they believed was often overlooked during emergencies: dignity and hygiene support for women and girls.
An appeal for donations was launched among friends, work colleagues and family members. The response, they said, was overwhelming.
Within a short time, the group raised a total of $6,340, enabling them to purchase 10 cartons of sanitary pads, three bales of washing powder and clothing essentials for women and girls in the affected community.
The supplies were shipped to Sasamunga on May 1st aboard the MV Pelican Express 1 and later handed over to staff at Sasamunga Hospital and Sasamunga High School.
Recipients included the nurse in charge at the hospital, the school principal, the home economics teacher and female students at the school.
For the group, the initiative was not only about delivering supplies, but also about restoring dignity, comfort and hope to women and girls recovering from the disaster.
The success of the relief effort has now inspired the organisers to continue helping other affected communities across Western Province.
They say what started as a small act of friendship has grown into a wider commitment to support vulnerable communities during difficult times.
The group also acknowledged the many individuals and supporters who contributed financially to help make the project possible.
“We wish to extend our deepest gratitude to those who opened their hearts and pockets to make this possible. Your kindness has provided dignity and relief to many. Our sincere appreciation and heartfelt thanks to: Mary A Inasimae, Alice A Hou, Anna G. Aitorea, Maslyn Tauvave, Mariselo Asupeu, Amos Ngaingeri, Christina Tefekome, Lavinia J Fineanganofo, Ronnie Raraihuru, Dr. Elizabeth Wore, Rose Karoa, Muriel Takamae, Etter Asanao, Josephine Pitakere, Roger Dezilwa, Don Fakarii, Mariselo Asupeu, Selwyn Luiramo, Jennifer Wate, Dairus Korasi, Deborah E. Aitorea, Gabriel Riotarau, Tolosi Hokutenikeni Women’s Association.
“Together, we are making a difference,” the organisers said in a message of thanks to donors and supporters.
In response, the nurse in charge of Sasamunga hospital said it’s a timely donation for mothers who are admitted, because accessing stores to buy such supplies is still a challenge due to physical access and economic challenges
The principal of Sasamunga Community High School is also very grateful for this small donation, as it will help their female students.
Photos: Supplied
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