Handover of Christmas Gifts to children in Vunato, Lautoka

It was all smiles for 102 children of Vunato Settlement in Lautoka as they received Christmas gifts from Pacific Recycling Foundation and Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited in partnership with Kokomo Private Island Resort.

The recipients are part of PRF and WRFL’s wider family as they are the children of Collection Pillars of Recycling who are engaged in informal waste picking.

PRF Founder and WRFL CEO, Mr. Amitesh Deo who officiated at the event in Vunato said the presents have brought a lot of joy and excitement in the community.

“We have been working very closely with the CPRs. This year has been quite significant as those that are involved in informal waste picking were officially given deserved recognition through a name change, that will hopefully bring an end to the stigma associated with waste picking. The name change is a fitting acknowledgment to their contribution to the waste management and recycling sector and perhaps the biggest and precious gift this Christmas,” said Mr. Deo. 

He said this is a milestone achievement and a stepping stone in their bid to move the CPRs to the formal sector through Green Jobs.

“Christmas is the most special time of the year for children as this is when they look forward to receiving gifts from loved ones. Here in Vunato, we have children from a month old to 18 years of age and their gifts have been carefully chosen,” stated Mr. Deo.

Mr. Deo said PRF and WRFL teams ensured that they bought educational gifts, including stationery materials for children who will be returning to school next year.

He has thanked Kokomo Private Island Resort for their partnership as this only goes to show their commitment towards recycling and those involved in informal waste picking.

Mr. Deo has also acknowledged Lautoka City Council for their continued partnership and assistance towards the gift handover ceremony.