Christian World Service Director Murray Overton expressed his thanks to supporters for the immense support for the Tonga Emergency Appeal. By mid-February donations were close to $150,000.

CWS is supporting the village based Ama Takiloa women’s network, through its longstanding partner Tonga Community Development Trust. The women will repair rainwater harvesting systems, plant fruit trees, replant family and community gardens, distribute water purification supplies, set up household poultry enterprises and provide community-based psychosocial support following training from the Family Centre.

“We have been so impressed by the love shown towards the people of Tonga and the commitment we all share to help them recover from the eruption, tsunami and associated trauma. Our prayers continue for Tonga. Together we can support many families get back on their feet,” he says.

CWS welcomes donations to the Tonga Emergency Appeal at cws.org.nz or phone 0800 74 73 72.