A cheque of $15,450 has been handed to the Cook Islands Vanuatu Community to assist families who were affected by two category-four tropical cyclones in Vanuatu last month.

Prime Minister Mark Brown said the government was pleased to commit $10,000 on behalf of the people of the Cook Islands to the fundraising efforts for cyclone-stricken Vanuatu.
Brown said through the fundraisings the total amount of cyclone relief funds to be contributed to Vanuatu by the Cook Islands is $15,450.
“Just like Vanuatu, we too are a small island state. We understand how far Vanuatu’s resources have been stretched in response to this disaster,” Brown said.

“I appreciate the efforts of those Cook Islanders who contributed to this fundraising effort and I am also happy Cabinet agreed to the top up of $10,000.”

In Parliament earlier this month, Brown said he had indicated to his team at the Ministry of Finance that he is more likely to support initiatives that go to countries that are far more in need.

Cook Islands Vanuatu Community leader Ronnie Sakai acknowledged the Vanuatu Community and Cook Islands Community for their support in the fundraising events.

“Thank you to those that contributed to buying the plates of food and also those that made a pledge during and after the radio-thon. Thank you also to the Cook Islands Government for supporting the event, for the generous contribution in matching the amount raised during the fundraiser event. 

“Funds that have been raised will help our communities and families in Vanuatu who have been badly affected by the two cyclones and recent flooding. It will be put towards building materials, food supplies, and clothing for those who have lost everything, giving them the help they need to rebuild their homes and lives.

“Although we are small in numbers, we are part of the wider Cook Islands community and the outcome of the fundraiser truly shows the Kuki love and support during times of need.”

The Vanuatu Community has also thanked the Prime Minister’s office, Emergency Management Cook Islands, Aunty Nga and Cook Islands Radiothon Community, Kumiti Au Vaine, Bank of the Cook Islands, and Numangatini Ariki and family.