Increased mobility gives a new lease on life
Samoeleoi Moetu with his new powered wheelchair.
Vaka Tautua’s Community Connector Service in Wellington has helped 243 Pacific people during the pandemic. The team recently supported Samoeleoi Moetu to regain his mobility and independence, giving him a new lease on life.
Faauuga Faye Seumanutafa, Senior Community Connector for Vaka Tautua in the Wellington region, connected Samoeleoi with available funding opportunities from the Lottery Grants Board.
Samoeleoi’s successful application for a Lottery Individuals with Disabilities Grant meant his family was able to purchase a powered wheelchair, allowing him to reconnect with his Samoan community.
Having increased mobility has greatly enhanced Samoeleoi’s quality of life and given him a newfound freedom. Even achieving the simple goal of being able to access the kitchen and make his own cup of tea has brought him joy.
Faye has stayed in contact with Samoeleoi and his family, checking up to see how they are and if they need any further support. They have expressed gratitude to Vaka Tautua for not just focusing on the individual in need, but supporting the fanau as a whole.
Samoeleoi said, “I thank God for the blessing that I have received through Vaka Tautua. Their service has made me so happy. I can only thank Vaka Tautua for the amazing work they do and the help they are providing for our people.”
Vaka Tautua wishes Samoeleoi and his family all the best for the future.
Vaka Tautua’s Community Connector Service is part of our Aiga Fiafia family of social services, helping to grow strong and resilient Pacific aiga, in this generation and the next. It is available in the Auckland Central, South Auckland, Wellington, and Canterbury regions.
Learn more about our Community Connector Service.