The Fiji Water Foundation will fund the $200,000 needed to renovate the bathrooms at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital’s maternity and children’s wards.
“The maternity ward at CWM delivers around 900 babies each month, and the children’s ward admits up to 800 children and sees an additional 500 children for outpatient care monthly,” said Fiji Water Foundation manager Marie Smith.
“CWM is everyone’s hospital in Fiji, and when we saw the state of the bathrooms we had to respond.
“As a mother of four, having given birth to all my children at CWM, I am emotional thinking about this investment for the mothers of Fiji. I am proud that our company stepped up and is doing something to ensure that our hospital has the right facilities during this vulnerable time for birthing mothers and their children.”
The funds will see the renovation of nearly 20 bathrooms and eight showers, plus the installation of new sinks, shower benches, ceilings, and industrial ventilation fans.
These renovations will ensure that patients and families using the essential services provided by CWM can access clean, and adequate facilities. In a statement, the foundation thanked the International Women’s Association (IWA) president, Judy Compain for her ongoing work at the CWM Hospital and her focus on women and children.
“The Fiji Water Foundation is committed to the investing in the wellbeing of all people in Fiji, and we are honoured to be able to support IWA and CWM in this way pivotal way.”
IWA said they were very excited to receive the funds. In a statement, the association said CWM maternity and children’s hospitals were critical institutions that served many mothers and children in Fiji.
“Women represent the cornerstone of a family’s overall health so we must ensure and support her access to clean facilities and quality care that can lead to improved health for newborn babies, children, and ultimately, whole families.”
