Mudslide Damages Buk bilong Pikinini Tatana LLC — CPL Foundation Responds with Immediate Aid

CPL Foundation Inc. has extended much-needed support to the Buk bilong Pikinini Tatana Library Learning Center following a mudslide that caused significant damage to the school’s surrounding stonewall in late May.

The Tatana LLC, a community-based early learning center supported by BbP, sits on land formerly used as the Tatana United Church Pastor’s residence. In 2014, when the pastor’s home was relocated, the land was made available for the school to be built. The stonewall, which was originally constructed by the church to secure the property, has stood for 11 years and sustained extensive damage during the recent mudslide.

The mudslide compromised the safety and structure of the school grounds. In response, CPL Foundation acted promptly, working with the CPL Group’s Repairs & Maintenance (R&M) team to assess the damage and identify a local contractor to carry out urgent repair work and reinforce the stonewall.

CPL Foundation Inc. has been a partner of Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP), supporting the BbP Tatana LLC for more than a decade. CPLF Inc. is a Diamond sponsor and through its financial support, funds the school’s operational expenses, including salaries for educators, special events, resources, and utilities.

The total cost of the restoration and reinforcement project was K44,000, fully funded by CPL Foundation Inc.

“Our priority was to ensure the safety of the students and the continued operation of the school. We’re proud to have been able to respond swiftly and support the BbP Tatana LLC students and teachers through this recovery,” said Ms. Deborah Alois, CPL Foundation Inc. Manager.

Mr. Maru Koraihi, Chairman of the Tatana United Church, expressed his gratitude:

“On behalf of the Church, the school, and the entire Tatana community, we sincerely thank the CPL Foundation for their swift response and continued support. The restoration of the wall ensures our children continue learning in a safe environment.”

Ms. Leanne Resson, Executive Officer of Buk bilong Pikinini, also extended her thanks:

“We are extremely grateful to CPL Foundation for stepping in during this time of need. I would also like to acknowledge Sir Mahesh Patel, the Foundation’s Chairman, for consistently supporting BbP Tatana LLC beyond the terms of our sponsorship agreement. His generosity and willingness to do more means so much to the children and the community.”

Representatives from CPL Foundation Inc. gathered with the Buk bilong Pikinini executive, BbP Tatana LLC teachers & students and community members for a photo opportunity on site to mark the completion of the works and CPL Foundation’s ongoing commitment to supporting education and community resilience.