Community Project

 

In September of 2004 Rick and Wendy were introduced to a group of people from Moto Lava, in the far North of Vanuatu. They fell in love with these people from the Happiest Country on Earth. Their open friendly and unassuming nature.

A strong bond was quickly formed with the distant community.

Because of distance from the central government, they received very little assistance. The government did donate a truck to the community, but the government never has any money for spare parts.

A supply ship might arrive anytime from one month to 6 months apart. A small plane flies in only once a week, weather permitting.

 

There is only one truck on the island.

All supplies arrive at the village through these two gateways. If the truck is not working, the men of the village carry everything in. A 25k hike (one way).

The bananas have been picked from their garden. The village is at the other end of the island, so as not use up fertile soil for housing.

Since 2004, 10% of all profit from Seachange Lodge has been sent to this community. Hand powered sharpening stone, nails, hammers, through to soap, tins of dried milk, milo, sewing machines and material have been sent.

A pencil broken into three pieces. Eexercise books shared between several students. Teacher’s resources few and far between. Even chalk and blackboard a luxury.

Rick says: “We are so appreciative of our guests who bring in the desperately needed school supplies, for us to ship north. This includes a lion’s club from the Central Coast, New South Wales. We have been privileged to assist these beautiful people and they have become a large part of our life. Now we want to help the children gain a higher education, in a society where there is little, or no cash economy.” As Room to Read states, education is the key to breaking the poverty cycle.

“Without your help we will never have the change to go to high school.”