Premium vanilla brand Heilala Vanilla has pledged to provide aid to farming communities impacted by Cyclone Gita in Tonga.
Heilala Vanilla partners with vanilla growers throughout Tonga, including on the island of ‘Eua where the cyclone hit.
The company was established in 2002 by a New Zealand family as an aid project following Cyclone Waka.
Since its inception, Heilala Vanilla has had a significant positive impact on the Tongan economy, providing employment and infrastructure across a number of communities.
The company is working to help those affected by Cyclone Gita to get back on their feet as soon as possible.
The category four storm that devastated the main island of Tongatapu and the neighbouring island of ‘Eua has left some villages completely destroyed, with limited access to food and water.
Heilala Vanilla has set up a donation page on its website to assist with the relief efforts. Every dollar of the funds donated will go directly to the people in need on ‘Eua.
The foundation has received donations of goods and services from the following New Zealand businesses:
• 1000 long-life milk bottles – Lewis Road Creamery
• Biscuits – The Griffin's Food Company
• Chainsaw petrol and oil packs – Stihl Shop
• Dart board and darts - Puma Darts
The donations and support will allow Heilala Vanilla to provide the following assistance directly to the villages on ‘Eua:
• Non-perishable food supplies
• More than 20 chainsaws to clear cyclone debris
• Building materials to repair damaged and destroyed homes
• Clothing and disposable nappies for infants and children
• A second shipment of supplies will be sent to ‘Eua High School in March.
