THE FIJI Water Foundation, FIJI Water, Neptune Pacific Direct Line (NPDL) and Aspen Medical teamed up to give the Lautoka Hospital Children’s Ward a fresh new look this Christmas.

As part of their Wonderful Neighbour Project, FIJI Water Fleet and NPDL Naikabula teams approached the hospital with plans to contribute to the Western Division’s healthcare.

“Wonderful Neighbour is a transformative initiative that empowers FIJI Water and NPDL employees to propose and implement meaningful projects in their communities,” FIJI Water Foundation said in a statement.

“Each participant is allocated $100 and eight paid working hours, strengthening ties between the organisations and the communities they serve.”
Aspen Medical’s chief executive officer in Fiji, Gavin Whiteside welcomed the support.

“The work done at the Children’s Ward by the FIJI Water Foundation will benefit many families for years to come,” he said.

FIJI Water Foundation’s director Semi Lotawa, said this year, 798 employees contributed to 21 Wonderful Neighbour projects across Fiji, dedicating more than 4,500 volunteer hours.

“Our latest effort to support the Lautoka Hospital Children’s ward underscores the FIJI Water Foundation’s commitment to positive change, community pride, and a sustainable future for Fiji,” Mr Lotawa said.

In addition to refreshing the ward’s waiting area and making improvements to the rest room facilities, the team also donated a new washing machine and dryer and installed a new swing set and four trikes for the children.

Other work included water blasting, painting walls, ceilings and walkways, tiling works, installing new doors and louvres, planting, cutting grass and building a new clothesline.
A total of 120 employees supported these efforts over the course of three days.

NOTE: This article was first published in the print version of the Fiji Times dated December 19, 2024.