The Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) has officially launched its Annual Christmas Gift and Stationery Drive, designed to brighten the holiday season for the children of the Collection Pillars of Recycling (CPR). This initiative, now in its third year and in partnership with Pacific Energy, aims to bring joy and alleviate some of the hardships faced by CPR families, who play a crucial role in maintaining environmental sustainability through recycling efforts, often under tough circumstances.
Amitesh Deo, the founder of PRF, emphasized the importance of community support, saying, “We should not be this broken as a community that some of our children are left without gifts during Christmas.” For many children belonging to CPR families, the festive season often turns into a time of disappointment, as their parents struggle to cover basic needs while working in dumpsites and public areas.
Launched in 2021, PRF’s Christmas Drive seeks to address this disparity by providing thoughtful gifts and essential school supplies to ensure that children can begin the new year with confidence and joy. Over the past two years, the initiative has positively impacted more than 600 children throughout Fiji, thanks to generous donations from local communities and partner organizations.
Deo further stated, “This drive is about showing these children that they are seen, valued, and loved,” reinforcing the message that these hardworking parents are the unsung heroes of Fiji’s recycling efforts. He noted that families often prioritize basic necessities such as food, leaving little room for the purchase of toys or educational materials. As a result, children frequently receive discarded items from dumpsites instead of new gifts, which could bring them happiness.
PRF aims to change this narrative, ensuring that parents do not have to rely on thrown-away items to create holiday joy for their children. The organization seeks to honor these families’ dignity and highlight the belief that every child deserves a special, new gift during Christmas.
The PRF warmly invites businesses, organizations, and individuals to join in the Christmas spirit by donating child-friendly gifts and essential stationery items. Gifts should avoid violent themes and, if possible, align with PRF’s commitment to sustainability by being plastic-free. Donations can be made at Malhana Cloud Kitchen Restaurant on Koronivia Road or via specially marked boxes located at selected Pacific Energy Service Stations.
Between December 16 and 20, PRF volunteers will traverse key locations in Fiji to distribute Christmas hampers that will include a gift, festive treats, and personalized messages for CPR children.
This initiative reflects a profound commitment not only to assist those in need but to remind the community of the importance of compassion and support during the holiday season. It is a hopeful endeavor that seeks to bring smiles and joy to children who truly deserve to feel valued and cherished, particularly during such a meaningful time of year.
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