Selfless Fiji - Painting A New Chapter In The Lives Of St Christpher’s Children
Selfless Fiji gathered an army of volunteers to bring to life the walls of St Christopher’s home. Dozens of volunteers, armed to the teeth with paint and brushes, painted their hearts out across the children’s home, starting from the main hall, through to the kitchen, up to the rooms, and out to the library and laundry, leaving behind nothing but colours and joy.
The call for volunteers and fundraising campaign started back in April 2021, was paused due to Covid-19 restrictions, and resumed in November 2021. After the initial support of ChubChubs Cupcakes, the organisation managed to attract in kind contributions from BSP Life, Oceania Gas and recently ANZ Staff Foundation, all of whom supplied paint and have been supporting Selfless Fiji in this journey. More companies joined, with the new sign board sponsored by Mr Chauhans Team from Star Printery & individual name tags for each child, by Gaunavinaka Artz Studio.
“Recently, ANZ Staff Foundation has endorsed a grant request to St Christopher's Orphanage, for resources to beautify shared spaces at the Home. It is an honour and a privilege to continue to live our purpose and help communities thrive,” said Pauline Kostatino member of the ANZ Staff Foundation.
In addition to its sponsors, Selfless Fiji can rely on over 50 volunteers committed to turn St Christophers’ into a colourful and joyful environment, where children are surrounded by artwork tailored to their age and needs.
“We are humbled by the community response. Everybody is simply here to help, everybody wants the best for the children and their future, which is also our future. We are here with artists and volunteers coming from all backgrounds, everybody is bringing out their best, one stroke at the time,” said Solomone Rabuli, Founder of Selfless Fiji.
“Painting art for the children at St Christophers’ is fulfilling. As a child, seeing images on my walls fueled my imagination, taking me to places, real and fantastical. I want to do the same for these kids, help them create and build, get those creative minds going, share creativity with them,” said Manasa Dauni, volunteer.
‘‘Growing up I wasn't an artistic person, but ever since joining Selfless Fiji and being surrounded by various artists has boosted my interest in painting. Every time I volunteer, I look forward to doing some artworks for the kids. The children’s reaction is what gives us joy in the work we do week in and out,’’ said Ani Mafi,volunteer.
“Being able to express my artistic talent is a form of love of which I hold dear to my heart. I am thankful to Selfless Fiji for having the opportunity to share my love for painting. Being surrounded by individuals who are open minded and creative has been a privilege and an honour. This is what service through love is, and this is how I spend my valuable time in expressing my love to St Christopher's Home,” said Karalaini Korovulavula, volunteer.
Selfless Fiji aims to complete the work at St Christopher’s in the next two months. Young artists and new volunteers keen to share their skills and talents to impact the community are always welcome. To check out and follow Selfless Fiji work:
https://www.facebook.com/SelflessFiji
https://www.instagram.com/selflessfiji_2021/
https://twitter.com/SelflessFiji
About Selfless Fiji
Selfless Fiji is a group dedicated to bringing together people who are passionate about volunteering in the community in any shape or form. The group promotes the values of selflessness and being of service to the community as a whole, making a difference in the lives of the people most in need for the greater good.