WelCom March 2022
The Catholic community across the Archdioceses of Wellington, the Diocese of Palmerston North and from around the country has also responded very generously to the Caritas Appeal to help with the volcanic eruption in Tonga on 15 January and its aftermath.
Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand began receiving funds as it worked with Caritas Tonga providing advice and funds for supplies to those in need. By late February, over $368,000 had been raised through its Pacific Relief Fund, to help vulnerable communities in Tonga.
‘We have been delighted to witness the magnificent generosity of the Catholic community and of all those who have donated to the appeal for Tonga. Real progress is being made with meeting the necessities of life but there is still a real need for ongoing psychosocial support to those who lived through the trauma of the eruption and the tsunami – those who have seen their homes and livelihoods destroyed,’ said Roger Ellis, Engagement Manager for Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand.
Caritas Tonga is working with local communities and leaders including Church leaders in Hihifo and Kanokupolu (Western Tongatapu) as assessments are made about the need for counselling for people in this area and others.
‘Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand and Caritas Tonga have been overwhelmed by the generosity shown by our supporters. Mālō ‘aupito! Thank you!’
If you would still like to support Caritas Tonga, please donate to the Pacific Relief Fund online or via our bank account 03-0518-0211216-00. Please include first and last name and put Tonga as the code: