A Samoan businessman based in New Zealand has had the opportunity to notice firsthand the increasing number of abused children now living at the Samoa Victim Support Group's Campus of Hope.

The General Manager of TASI Market in New Zealand, Afioga Toleafoa Leatuao Tupa’i Lavea ended up at the shelter facility when he visited the office of the S.V.S.G. in Apia to purchase supplies from the Nofotane Shop.

Close to 100 children from newborn babies to girls in their teens including those who are 18 are being cared for by the local humanitarian organisation. While the majority of the children are survivors of violence, a few are abandoned children and inclusive of children with disabilities.

It was during discussions about the products at the Nofotane Shop that the Campus of Hope was mentioned and he made the decision to see for himself.

“I never knew this was the extent of the problem until I saw the children. From seeing them at the playground to hearing them sing, I felt so much love for the children and this has been the highlight of my visit to Samoa during this time,” said Toleafoa.

Toleafoa encouraged the children to love each other as brothers and sisters and to remember that God loves them very much.

“In life, we are on a journey, and the people that we meet become family, even if we are not blood-related,” he said.

According to the S.V.S.G. President Siliniu Lina Chang, it has been the support of their friends, which has allowed them to look after the children.

“Through the support of development partners such as UNICEF Pacific, the Samoa Gender Partnership Program, the UNDP Spotlight Initiative, the church, village and business communities and individuals, S.V.S.G. child protection work for the abused and vulnerable children of Samoa continues.

“Thank you Toleafoa for expressing an interest to become one of SVSG’s Ambassadors for the Children of Hope. Thank you also for the donation for the children during your visit. As a family, we will continue to save lives, together.”

Meanwhile, the S.V.S.G. has organised a family fun day for the Campus of Hope next weekend which is also the date for their online fundraiser.