A donation of 50 chairs from the Rotary Clubs of Ballarat West and Nuku’alofa was handed over to the Ālonga Centre on 9 March 2026, providing new seating for residents and visitors while also creating an opportunity for the centre to generate income.

A member of the Rotary Club of Ballarat West, Mr. Taniela Lātū, represented the organisations in presenting the chairs to Ālonga Centre Coordinator Ms. Fungani ‘Oliveti.

The centre said the donation will help accommodate visitors and support daily needs for residents.

“Some visitors visit in a big group. Sometimes the current resources possessed by the Centre, cannot facilitate our visitors,” the centre told Matangi Tonga.

They said the chairs will also be useful for residents’ everyday activities.

“At the same time, our residents require a chair for sitting on, doing reading, resting and more. This massive donation can impact the Centre, by earning income through hiring of the chairs for special occasions and events.”

The Rotary Clubs of Ballarat West and Nuku’alofa have previously supported the centre with donations of beds, mobility aids and other items.

The Ālonga Centre acknowledged the donation from the two Rotary clubs.