First 500 eligible CBD workers to get VT20,000 each in Red Cross relief

February 19, 2025 10:20 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Vourie Molivakoro.

The Vanuatu Red Cross Society (VRCS) has initiated a multi-purpose cash assistance programme to support individuals whose employment and income were adversely affected by the devastating December 17, 2024, earthquake.

The programme specifically targets those who have lost their jobs, are working part-time, or have experienced a reduction in salary due to the disaster.

A relief package of VT20,000 per person has been announced for workers from the Central Business District (CBD) who meet the qualification criteria and are who are currently jobless, partially employed, or have experienced salary reductions due to the impact of the 7.3 magnitude earthquake.

To facilitate registrations, VRCS has set up a temporary office at Saralana Park, where affected individuals can submit their details, including their National Identification.

Secretary General (SG) of VRCS, Dickinson Tevi, confirmed that the relief initiative also extends to employees of establishments and businesses that suffered substantial damage during the earthquake.

Among the businesses identified as heavily impacted are Wong Garage, Tamanu on the Beach Resort, and the Ministry of Lands, which is located near the Vanuatu Agricultural Supplies main office.

Registrations for the relief package are currently ongoing. However, the first 500 eligible applicants will be prioritised and granted the assistance as an initial measure.

Additional categories for potential recipients are under consideration and may be included in future phases of the relief effort.

This initiative aims to provide immediate financial support to those most affected by the earthquake, helping them recover from economic setbacks and sustain their livelihoods as the nation rebuilds from the disaster.

VRCS SG Tevi has urged those impacted to come forward and register, even if they are unsure about their eligibility.

“Red Cross cash support is designed to address the needs of the vulnerable. Therefore, we would still like to hear from you, especially if you lost your job or your income was affected by the earthquake,” Tevi emphasised.

He confirmed that if registration numbers remain low, there may be consideration for expanding to other communities.

However, the immediate priority remains the CBD and those most affected.

Registration remains open today from 1:30PM to 4:00PM, and applicants are encouraged to bring their National ID and Vanuatu National Provident Fund (VNPF) details, if available. A copy of their employment contract would also be beneficial, Tevi added.

The initiative reflects VRCS’ commitment to providing essential financial relief to those struggling in the aftermath of the earthquake, ensuring that vulnerable communities receive the support they need during this challenging time.