The Children’s Ward at Lautoka Hospital has undergone a significant transformation, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the FIJI Water Foundation, FIJI Water, Neptune Pacific Direct Line (NPDL), and Aspen Medical. This initiative, part of the Wonderful Neighbour Project, aims to enhance healthcare in the Western Division by empowering employees to develop and execute impactful community projects.
Under this initiative, FIJI Water and NPDL teams presented plans to revitalize the hospital, demonstrating a strong commitment to community welfare. Every employee participating in the project is given FJ$100 and eight hours of paid time off, fostering deeper connections between the organizations and the local communities.
Gavin Whiteside, Chief Executive of Aspen Medical in Fiji, expressed gratitude for the community’s support, noting that the improvements in the Children’s Ward will provide lasting benefits for many families.
The revitalization efforts included enhancing the waiting area, upgrading restroom facilities, and donating a new washing machine and dryer. Additionally, the team installed a swing set and provided four tricycles for the children, promoting both enjoyment and wellbeing. Other improvements involved thorough cleaning, painting, new tiling, and landscaping efforts, all achieved by 120 employees over three days.
Semi Lotawa, Director of the FIJI Water Foundation, highlighted that this year alone, 798 employees participated in 21 Wonderful Neighbour projects throughout Fiji, contributing over 4,500 hours of volunteer work. The recent enhancements made at the Lautoka Hospital Children’s Ward reflect the FIJI Water Foundation’s dedication to fostering positive change, building community pride, and ensuring a sustainable future for Fiji.
This initiative not only improves the immediate environment for young patients and their families but also showcases how corporate social responsibility can lead to meaningful community engagement. With such efforts, we can remain hopeful for the continued empowerment and support of local healthcare facilities.
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