The Foundation for the Education of Needy Children in Fiji expects an increase in the number of school assistance applications next month with the increase in Value Added Tax (VAT).
FENC Fiji head of operations Nirmala Nambiar said this was to be expected because not all families could afford the high cost of living.
“There are families in those categories who won’t be able to afford this increase,” Ms Nambiar said.
“This will be an increase for us as well because we will be buying at a higher price, so we will make sure to purchase from the best and most affordable suppliers.
“So, with the government’s back-to-school assistance, and us being there to support, we will be able to assist children who need that support later in the year.”
Ms Nambiar said Government had given them $300,000 for the new financial year. Since 2009, the NGO has assisted 27,000 needy children with basic school stationery.
