A new era of charitable giving has begun in Turarana and surrounding communities in Central Guadalcanal, thanks to the Gao Charity Fund.
This charity was established by Mr Mingging Gao, Chairman and President of Wanguo International Mining Group at Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML).
As the largest shareholder in Wanguo International Mining Group, he envisioned this initiative to support people who are struggling to make ends meet, including the marginalized and under privileged.
A total of 41 recipient which includes elderly individuals, widows and disabled received assistance.
This year marks the first distribution of the funds, following his pledges to contribute $500,000 annually to ensure sustainable community assistance. The funds were managed by a dedicate committee, working closely with chiefs and local leaders to identify eligible recipients, ensuring fair and effective allocation.
Walton Naezon, Chairman of Gold Ridge Community Investment Limited (GCIL) speaking on behalf of Mr Gao, praised the initiative while highlighting its broader impact; “On behalf of Mr Gao, I want to emphasize that this fund is a powerful step toward strengthening community welfare.
“It directly supports those in need, providing financial relief s to widows, vulnerable individuals, and under privileged in our communities. This initiative also extends beyond immediate assistance- it reflects commitment to helping people in the surrounding communities, ensuring long term development and resilience.”
Naeson also expressed gratitude to the local people for their generosity in sharing their land and resources, acknowledging their role in facilitating progress and sustainability.
He further thanked the company for its effort in constructing roads and bridge, emphasizing that such infrastructure not only benefits current communities but lay the future foundation for development opportunities.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Dick Douglas, Chairman of Gold Ridge Company Landowners Association underscored the significance of the Gao Charity Fund in improving lives and called for continued corporate support.
“I want to thank Mr Gao for recognising the local people of Turarana, especially the under privileged, who faced economic hardships. His generosity will make a difference but we also urge the company to recognize critical issues affecting our communities, including environmental challenges, healthcare, schools, and infrastructure development for the future of our children,” he said.
He further encouraged his people to invest wisely, ensuring the financial aid received is utilized for long term sustainability.
The Gao Charity Fund operates within a structured approach, ensuring long term stability for those under privileged. Each year the managing committee will oversee the allocation, working hand in hand with local chiefs to asses and approve beneficiaries, reinforcing community led decision making.
Andrianah Delasalet Kole
Solomon Star, Honiara.
