Setariki Matanidaku, a 45-year-old resident of Sarava in Labasa, is in urgent need of assistance following a devastating whirlwind that struck his home on Monday afternoon. The storm, which hit around 4 PM, caused extensive damage to the only house affected that day, ripping off the roofing, collapsing walls, and scattering personal belongings.
Having dedicated his life to serving his community, Mr. Matanidaku is now reaching out for support to rebuild his three-bedroom home. “I have been a community man all my life, and now it’s the community’s turn to help,” he remarked while currently residing with relatives nearby during this challenging time.
Mr. Matanidaku is requesting both financial contributions and building supplies to help cover the estimated repair cost of $50,000. Although he has salvaged some roofing iron, much of it is bent and unusable. He expressed the gravity of their loss, stating, “We lost everything in the wind; the only clothes left were those we had on that day.”
This incident not only emphasizes the urgent need for community support but also reflects a broader issue, as many families in the region have faced substantial losses due to recent weather events. Previous appeals for help have shown remarkable community solidarity, illustrating the resilience and strength that can emerge in times of hardship.
Despite these challenges, Mr. Matanidaku remains hopeful about the prospect of rebuilding his home. With the support of his community, he believes they can restore their lives. He invites others to lend a helping hand during this difficult time, fostering a spirit of collaboration and resilience in the face of adversity.
This story serves as a reminder of the power of community and the importance of coming together during crises, reinforcing that even in difficult times, there is hope and the possibility for renewal.
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