The Foundation for the Education of Needy Children (FENC) Fiji was preparing to aid 6000 children prepare for the 2021 school year when super storm Yasa struck.
FENC Fiji financial controller Priya Lata said the number would increase significantly because of the impact of the cyclone.
“I had 980 children on my list for the Northern Division, but the numbers are increasing,” Ms Lata said while speaking to this newspaper from Labasa.
“We have gone over the 1500 mark and we are still conducting assessments so this could increase even further.”
Ms Lata said FENC Fiji was trying to stretch its resources to assist as many children as possible.
“We are not funded by Government nor do we receive any grant, we assist children from very poor families purely from donations.”
She also said she was aware of other organisations rolling out aid for schoolchildren.
“At present, I have only heard about SODELPA assisting 1000 children with $20 back to school packs, but I am not aware of what this involves.
“FENC Fiji provides $100 to $150 packs which includes bags, books, stationery, calculators, mathematical sets and technical drawing equipment.
“Families who have lost everything will also receive uniforms and shoes as well.
“Some parents have four to six kids and you can imagine the depth of despair and desperation with school about to start.”