People in Nadi who are eligible for the $90 grocery assistance can apply via text message to 161, from 9 this morning.

Acting Permanent Secretary for Economy, Shiri Gounder confirms the Nadi area from the Momi junction to Lomolomo will be processed first, followed by Lautoka tomorrow and the other areas to follow suit.

Gounder has urged applicants to put the money to good use.

“We’re providing this cash generally targeted for families to purchase groceries. We are giving them the freedom to choose items that they can purchase. There are no restrictions but the country is going through a tough time and we urge everyone that the taxpayers’ funds be used wisely.”

Those eligible can use either the Vodafone network or Digicel with no fees and charges by service providers.

Gounder also confirms all applications will be verified with the Fiji National Provident Fund as well as customer records from Vodafone and Digicel to identify their location.

Applicants must include their full name, FNPF account number, their occupation, home address, and the number of people in their household.

The Ministry of Economy will conduct random verification to ensure there is no abuse and those caught may face legal action.