K5,000 for Samoa tsunami appeal

ANGLIMP-South Waghi MP Jamie Maxtone-Graham yesterday handed over a K5,000 cheque to New Zealand High Commissioner Niels Holm and members of the Papua New Guinea Samoa Tsunami Appeal Committee (PNGSTAC) in Port Moresby to help those devastated by the tsunami in Samoa two weeks ago.
Mr Maxtone-Graham said during the occasion that the funds were raised by PNG Coastal Cleanup Association (CCA) and, as chairman of the association, he was happy to support the relief effort now underway.
“As Pacific islanders, our heart go out to the families and loved ones of the tsunami victims,” Mr Maxtone-Graham said.
He also appealed to other PNG leaders and business houses to support the relief effort carried out by PNGSTAC.
In receiving the cheque, Mr Holm thanked Mr Maxtone-Graham and said the donation was a gesture of Pacific solidarity and generosity in times of trouble.
He said the impact of the tsunami even reached PNG, because Samoans living in PNG had lost family members and this donation was very timely and much appreciated.
“In the true Pacific spirit, you have given to your brothers and sisters in times of need and that shows that not only are you a PNG leader but also a Pacific leader,” Mr Holm said.
PNGSTAC chairman, Taito Lautofa McCarthy, was grateful for the support towards the relief effort and thanked Mr Maxtone-Graham on behalf of the people of Samoa.
Mr McCarthy extended his call to the PNG Samoan community, the private sector and residents of Port Moresby to support the relief effort through generous donations and purchasing tickets for a fundraising dinner on Oct 24th.
For enquiries on donations and tickets, contact PNGSTAC on 320 0585 or 7686 8135.