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On September 29th, 2009, the earth shook near our island nations and caused a tsunami
that claimed the lives of many of our people. As sons and daughters of Samoa living abroad, we felt helpless.
Contact with our families on the islands were difficult. As we awaited word from our families and loved ones, all we
could do was to pray and hold on to the hope that they were safe.
We held a prayer vigil the evening after, September 30th, to
pray for our homeland and everyone affected. We also offered thanksgiving unto the Lord for His protection
over our people.
In the days that followed, as
the enormity of the destruction became more apparent, our church leaders decided that we had to do our part to help those
in need. It was decided that we would hold a Tsunami Relief Drive and
proceeds from that would go to the Relief efforts for the Samoas via The American Red Cross.
We had
food plate sale (like there is nothing like the aroma of Island Bargeque on a crisp Texas morning) along with a car wash and garage sale. We also took monetary
donations.
Samoans
in the area as well as the different people from different parts of Central Texas poured in to support our efforts.
At the conclusion
of the events of that day, our total raised was $8500. But as word kept getting
out about our drive, the number kept climbing and reached $10,000 just as the month closed out.
On Wednesday, October 28th, our
church leaders presented $10,000 to the American Red Cross to help with the relief efforts in American
and Western Samoa.
We are very humbled with
the turn out and we praise God for it all; for without Him, all our efforts would be in vain.
Thank you Central Texas for all your
support.
On October 28, 2009, our church leaders presented funds from our Tsunami Relief Fundraiser to Bob Roberts of the
American Red Cross, Killeen Chapter.
L to R: 1st row: Bob Shafer, Rev. Sasa ; 2nd row: A'oa'o Leasina Lefotu, A'oa'o Tamaalemalo Liufau, Ti'akono
Sualosi Taula'i, & Faletua Kale Liufau.
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