Lupesoliai and family bring joy to Campus kids

By Faynihanthia Fereti 10 January 2024, 8:00PM

It was a message that Samoan heavyweight boxer Lupesoliai Joseph Parker has always told himself and on Wednesday he shared it with the children survivors of the Campus of Hope.

Lupesoliai told the children to strive and thrive, and never give up on their goals.

"I encourage you all to keep your heads up and make the most of every day and always strive to do the best in every opportunity that comes your way," he said.

Lupesoliai together with his Stunzner family met with the children survivors at the Campus of Hope in a moving and eye-opening experience. 

In an interview with Samoa Observer, Lupesoliai said despite that this is not his first visit, it still inspires him to see the children at the Campus of Hope and this visit brings him so much joy as well as to his family.

"I've come together with my Stunzner family to bring food and support to the kids here because they go through a lot and this is our way of giving back to the people in need, especially the children," he said. 

"We've had a good life and my family is blessed and this is the least we can do by offering support and more hope for the kids in need and its so nice to see them here in this safe environment receiving the help and care they need."

The elder children have seen the boxer on television and were awed by him and his humble nature. The younger children were happy that people had come bearing gifts and to mingle with them

Samoa Victim Support Group President Siliniu Lina Chang also acknowledged the heavyweight boxer and his family for continuing to donate and inspire the children with their presence and generosity. 

"We deeply appreciate the Stunzner family's unwavering kindness and genuine care for the children which greatly helps us to create and maintain a safe space for the children," Siliniu said.

The Campus of Hope received goods and cash donations of over $200 tala.

There are currently more than 80 children staying at the Campus of Hope with the youngest being three months old. Last month the Campus also celebrated one of its girl survivors who flew out to New Zealand on a scholarship to study.

Siliniu said 2023 had been a challenging year as they experienced an increase in the number of children being placed at the Campus. The absence of a state-run centre for child victims of physical and sexual abuse led to the establishment of the Campus of Hope.

Meanwhile, Lupesoliai and his family return to their homes this weekend as the boxer gets back into training with the hopes of securing at least four bouts this year.

 

By Faynihanthia Fereti 10 January 2024, 8:00PM
Samoa Observer

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