By Linny Folau

Fisherman, Latu Kamisese (60s) who lost his house at Patangata during Tropical Cyclone Gita is appealing for food donations to help sustain his family for now. 

Latu cannot go out fishing while he finds shelter for his family. He said they have received two tarpaulins, which he today used for shelter from the rain.

Around 11 people, including Latu and his wife ‘Ititi, their children and grandchildren sought refuge inside their van at their property, when the cyclone hit Tongatapu on February 12, and for the fisherman it was like riding a storm at sea.

“We went inside the van in the evening taking only essentials. The van shook and swayed like we were on rough sea during the cyclone,” he said.

His wife 'Ititi believes that God’s love was there for them because their van was not blown away.

Latu said they woke up the next day safe and thankful, but their small house was completely demolished, with the timber broken to pieces.

"What can we do now, we are poor and our livelihood is sustained from the sea. But after the cyclone, I have to stay back and try repair our shelter and I can't go to the bush to get some tapioca because we have no fuel," he said.

Latu said they drink tap water and have flour and crackers but will be most grateful for any food assistance to help them for the time being, until he gets back on his feet.

"I can rebuild my house after I go back to fish but, at this point, food is what we urgently need," he said.