The Bejin Tarut Association in Central Pentecost Area 1 is making a lasting difference in the lives of people in need across the island.

Established in 2024 and registered under the Vanuatu Financial Services Commission, the local association focuses on supporting vulnerable groups — including orphans, widows, and the elderly.

The initiative was started by Area Administrator Richard Tabi, who said the association began with just VT8,000 in tithes. Despite its humble beginnings, the group has made a significant impact through community visits, donations, and outreach programs.

Mr. Tabi said the association recently completed a visitation program where they distributed donated items from the Kiwanis Club, reaching out to those who often feel forgotten.

“Many of the elderly we visited were emotional and happy,” he said. “We wanted to show them that they are not left behind — that we still care about them.”

In addition to its outreach programs, Bejin Tarut Association has contributed VT500,000 to fund the construction of new classrooms at Bwatnapi School and continues to support community development efforts in Lalbultamata, North Pentecost.

Mr. Tabi said their work even gained recognition from Minister for Climate Change, Ralph Regenvanu, who attended one of the association’s closing programs last year. The Minister expressed surprise and pride at discovering a locally driven group taking such initiative to help those in need.

Looking ahead, the association plans to expand its programs and attract more support to reach more communities.

“Next year, we hope to move forward with more programs,” said Mr. Tabi. “At the moment, I am the only one budgeting and funding Bejin Tarut, but we aim to grow and help even more people.”

The Bejin Tarut Association continues to stand as an inspiring example of how local leadership and community spirit can create real and lasting change in Vanuatu.