'Cupcake Sundays' has been brought back to improve the hospital experience for children.

Reigning Miss Samoa and Miss Pacific Islands, Moemoana Safa'atoa Schwenke, partnered with Project Paeds Samoa to relaunch "Cupcake Sundays" by delivering cupcakes to young patients at Moto'otua Hospital.

Established in 2014, Project Paeds Samoa has been a beacon of support for young patients in Samoa, receiving the prestigious Coconut Award from the Samoa Medical Association in 2017 and celebrating its fifth anniversary in 2019.

Since its inception, Project Paeds Samoa has made significant strides, including organising two toy and book drives in Auckland, New Zealand, to benefit hospitalised children in Samoa. 

The team has also been active in fundraising events like the Savaii marathon, which supported the Kimo Kona fund for children undergoing chemotherapy. 

In collaboration with Samoa International Financial Authority (S.I.F.A.) and Samoa Stationary and Books (SSAB), Dr. Salote Vaai and Dr. Litara Esera helped establish a combined library and toy room in the wards, enhancing the hospital environment for young patients.

The organisation’s "Cupcake Sundays" and "Saturday Readers" have received overwhelming support from youth groups, the business community, and expatriates, reflecting a strong commitment to enriching the lives of hospitalised children. 

In 2018, Project Paeds Samoa also facilitated life-saving treatment for a young child in New Zealand.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a temporary pause in many of these activities. However, the team remained responsive to urgent needs and specific requests from the pediatric team at the hospital.

As part of its renewed efforts for 2024, Project Paeds Samoa is set to relaunch several key initiatives, including "Cupcake Sundays," "Saturday Readers," and "Gifting Wednesdays." 

These programs aim to bring joy and comfort to children in both Upolu and Savai’i. 

The organisation also plans to expand its support to newborns and is working on a new project, "The Garden of Peace and Sanctuary," a serene space designed to offer respite for patients and their families.

Miss Samoa and Miss Pacific Islands, Moemoana Safa'ato'a Schwenke, expressed her enthusiasm for re-engaging with the project and highlighted the crucial role of sponsors, including PFL Samoa, Sheraton Samoa Aggie Greys Hotel and Bungalow, and Purpose Plantation Samoa. Their support is instrumental in driving the project's goals forward.

Project Paeds Samoa invites anyone interested in contributing to its mission to reach out for more information. The relaunch of "Cupcake Sundays" symbolises a renewed commitment to ensuring a positive and supportive hospital experience for every child.