NZ assistance

The payments, funded by New Zealand and distributed by Oxfam Vanuatu, are an innovative form of support that ensures people in need can purchase the items they need, rather than have relief agencies donors make the decision for them.

“The families I talked to told me their cash payments are being used to fund housing, food and school fees. It was great to see them being able to make spending choices that reflected their particular situations,” Mr Schwass said.

This week Oxfam distributed payments to 2,694 volcano affected families from Ambae who have relocated to Santo.

This will be their form of assistance in partnership with Oxfam Vanuatu to deliver to the affected families.

NZ has been confirmed following the signing of the funding agreement between their High Commissioner Jonathan Schwass and Oxfam Director Elizabeth Faerua.

Households will be able spend the money they receive on whatever they need most, be it food, soap, shelter materials, garden tools or school fees.

Over the last ten years Corrections has sent delegations to three Pacific Islands: Vanuatu, Samoa and Pitcairn. At a celebration at Corrections National Office today, Ms Collins recognised the efforts of the first batch of recipients with the presentation of a Pacific Pin, known as the Hoe Akau.

The Hoe Akau is a steering paddle, giving direction and support to other paddlers to ensure the most efficient arrival at a given destination.