MORE than $20,000 was raised on Saturday by members of the St Vincent De Paul parish community in Navatuyaba, Toga, Rewa, as they rallied support for the renovation and extension of their church.
The fundraising (soli), attended by Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Mosese Bulitavu as chief guest, collected a total of $20,002.05 towards the project.
Community leader Ratu Peni Todua said the fundraising drive had been ongoing for more than two years.
“We started our fundraising from 2024 to date, just to help this cause,” he said.
Ratu Peni said about 30 families made up the church community and were committed to preserving a place of worship built by previous generations.
“There are about 30 families that make up this community.
“This church was established and built by our forefathers, many of whom have passed on.
“So now it’s up to us to keep this church standing through renovation.”
He said communities should take the initiative to support their own development projects rather than relying entirely on government assistance.
“We shouldn’t always wait for the government to come help us; we need to start the work ourselves.”
Ratu Peni also acknowledged the support received during the fundraising event.
