A COMMERCIAL bank has committed $A100,000 ($F153,589) to the Fiji Red Cross to support disaster-affected areas.

This financial assistance from Westpac Bank will enable the Red Cross to respond quickly to immediate needs such as food and clean water as well as the longer-term rebuilding and recovery of areas hit by Tropical Cyclone Winston.

The bank’s regional head South Asia and Pacific Greg Pawson says Westpac has a long history of helping communities across the Pacific in times of need.

“The impact of this natural disaster is without precedent in Fiji and, as a major corporation in the country, Westpac is committed to supporting the local community, our customers and employees through this period,” Mr Pawson said in a statement yesterday.

“To support the communities affected by this natural disaster, Westpac Fiji will donate $A100,000 to the Fiji Red Cross to support the immediate relief and humanitarian efforts underway. Our thoughts are with everyone affected as they rebuild their lives and businesses,” he said.

The bank says it will waive the electronic transfer fee for customers wanting to send emergency funds to their families in Fiji and has activated its Disaster Relief Package.

Customers wishing to access the Disaster Relief Package should contact their relationship manager or branch staff to determine the most appropriate and responsible solution for their circumstances.

Westpac branches around Fiji are currently open for restricted trading hours to assist customers with accessing cash and we are working with customers to service other payable and receivable needs including telegraphic transfers. Westpac has dedicated teams working to overcome delays and restore banking services to ensure people can access their money at this time.