Transport helps Tongan family through tough times
Advice from Vaka Tautua’s Disability Information Advisory Services team has helped a Tongan family reconnect to their community through access to better transport. A successful application for financial assistance enabled them to purchase a vehicle, transforming their lives for the better.
(L to R) Meleseini Fatu, Halapuopua Saafi, Amelia Saafi, Mr Fatu and son.
Meleseini Fatu has been the primary carer for her mother, Amelia Saafi, and her sister, Halapuopua Saafi, for many years. The family receives ongoing home support services from other providers, but approached Vaka Tautua for help with transportation challenges they were facing.
Difficulties using public transport and having no vehicle of their own meant the family sometimes struggled to attend doctor’s appointments, and often missed out on family gatherings, church services, and other community activities.
Lolomanaia Filiai, Vaka Tautua’s Senior Disability Coordinator in Auckland, connected with the family to provide them with information in their Tongan language. He advised Meleseini about available government funding, and suggested she apply for financial assistance from the Lottery Grants Board to help the family purchase a vehicle.
Meleseini followed Lolo’s expert advice, collating the necessary documents and support letters before submitting an application for Lottery Individuals with Disabilities funding. When they received word that the application had been successful, Meleseini and her family were overjoyed and felt their prayers had been answered.
The family were able to use the funding towards purchasing a van, and are confident they won’t miss any more doctor’s appointments. They now go on family outings, exploring new places together, and have said the unexpected financial assistance during tough COVID times was a true blessing for them all.
Meleseini said, “Thank you Vaka Tautua, and especially Lolomanaia, for your kind assistance in helping us put through this application. Malo ‘aupito for your professional advice and cultural support. May God bless you and Vaka Tautua.”
Learn more about Vaka Tautua’s Disability Information Advisory Services