AS 1000 Nadi school children rejoice the philanthropic efforts of a private sector group, another inspirational story has emerged.
And it comes in the form of the familiar face of Alfred Kumar, the congenital heart patient who used to spend the day scrounging for food in Lautoka City.
The plight of the young man was featured in the front page of The Fiji Times last year, detailing the harsh conditions he lived in along with two teenage cousins.
On Tuesday night at Denarau's Sofitel Resort and Spa, Alfred was revealed as one of the many volunteers assisting flood-affected families.
The private sector group he is associated with gathered to announce the success of an all-fees paid project for 1000 school children attending 15 schools in Nadi.
The students were identified after a two-week survey of schools in the flood-prone area.
Led by Brett and Louise Whittaker, the Good Samaritans' efforts began with the cooking and feeding of victims of the deluge in March.
The group was also involved in the distribution of supplies, amounting to a staggering $325,000.
In the aftermath of the floods, Mrs Whittaker identified education as an area that needed attention. She found out that an astounding 1000 children needed help.
"The call went out on June 25 and once again it was stunning to see that in two weeks the private sector responded, raising enough for 1000 flood-affected children," said Mr Whittaker.
At the reception on Tuesday all headteachers of the 15 schools were present as well as the permanent secretary for Regional Development, Colonel Inia Seruiratu. Mr Whittaker said the private sector was a powerful and passionate force.
"And it passionately wanted to see its efforts and donations channeled directly and immediately to the people suffering. Today 15 headmasters and head mistresses from 15 schools and the parents of 1000 school children can take some relief and exhale some stress knowing their children's school fees are paid," he said.
He said there were many more schools in Ba and Sigatoka that needed a hand and encouraged everyone to step up and "take the pressure off" parents facing difficulties paying for their children's education.