25 Dec 2009

Red Cross upholds Christmas spirit in Samoa

10:34 am on 25 December 2009

The Red Cross in Samoa says efforts are being made to ensure the spirit of Christmas is not lost in the villages affected by the tsunami in September.

One hundred and 43 people were killed in Samoa when parts of the south coast were hit by earthquake-generated waves up to six metres high.

Although people have lost their homes and loved ones, Samoa Red Cross secretary general Tautala Mauala, says they have been very resilient.

She says entertainers have gone to the villages to spread some Christmas cheer and Christmas trees have been delivered to the affected areas.

Clean water is still a high priority, as is the rebuilding of homes, with more than 300 under construction.