Save the Children Fiji has so far received 353 applications from those seeking assistance in sending children back to school from Tuesday. [File Photo]

Save the Children Fiji has so far received 353 applications from those seeking assistance in sending children back to school from Tuesday.

Chief Executive, Shairana Ali, says the majority of these applications are from single parents and grandparents who act as guardians.

Ali says the number of applications is expected to increase.

“We have a lot of parents who are quite desperate this time, because of how COVID-19 has affected a lot of families so this year, we are seeing a lot of people who are really desperate to have some kind of support to send their children to school and just to meet their basic needs.”

She is also urging Fijians to offer assistance if they can or refer them to the NGO for educational needs.

“If people are coming across others who need that support we are urging them to help out as well. For the community to come together and help out also refer to us so we can look into their case and provide that support.”

Save the Children Fiji is also requesting those applying for assistance, to be honest in their request.