Santos staff and contractors are spearheading impactful community initiatives through the Santos Foundation Small Grants Program, highlighting its mission to invest in local initiatives that help communities thrive. One story of transformation stands out: the inspiring efforts of Tau Geno Hoire, GEDSI Adviser at Santos Foundation, who brought vital support to her community on the Aroma Coast, Central province.
Since the inception of the small grants program in 2016, the Santos Foundation has invested over PGK1.6 million in 325 projects across Papua New Guinea, benefitting over 167,000 people. Among these initiatives, Tau’s project has become a beacon of hope for her community, addressing critical food security challenges.
A Community’s need
Earlier this year, Tau partnered with Michelle Vanua, Ward Women’s Council President in Wairavanua and Vuru villages, to identify pressing issues threatening their community’s food security. A workshop held in April-May 2023 revealed alarming gaps: inadequate protective food cultivation; limited access to tools; climate-induced loss of arable land, and insufficient seedlings for crop diversification. Rising sea levels further compounded these struggles, emphasising the urgent need for sustainable gardening practices.
Delivering Solutions Through the Small Grants Program
Determined to make a difference, Tau applied for a grant through the Santos Foundation Small Grants Program. The funding enabled the procurement of 93 gardening tools, including bush knives, forks, spades, hoes, and gumboots, along with 60 seed packets of nutrient-rich crops such as pakchoi, tomatoes, onions, and watermelon. These resources supported the introduction of raised bed gardening, a climate-resilient technique designed to overcome environmental challenges and ensure families could cultivate nutritional gardens.
A Day of Celebration
On Saturday, 23 November 2024, Wairavanua village market came alive with celebration as Tau’s initiative reached a major milestone. The distribution event, attended by 118 community members, including ward councillors, church leaders, and other local leaders, marked a turning point for Ward 11.
“These tools and seeds will improve the cultivation of crops, enhance our nutrition, and offer solutions for clans losing land to the sea,” said Michelle Vanua, Ward 11 Women Council President. “Thank you, Santos Foundation.”
Empowering Change
For Tau, the project carried a deeply personal significance. “I was proud to represent Santos Foundation and fulfill a critical workshop recommendation,” she shared. “Knowing this will benefit my community for years to come fills me with immense gratitude.”
A Legacy of Impact
Jean Martin, Head of Santos Foundation PNG, stated, “The Santos Foundation Small Grants Program is more than just a funding initiative—it’s a catalyst for empowering staff and contractors to lead community-driven solutions. By harnessing their expertise and passion, the Foundation strengthens resilience and fosters meaningful, lasting change across Papua New Guinea.”
Ward Councillor presenting a tool to a pioneering women council member and leader in Wairavanua village, Mrs Lewa Geno Roakeina
The excited women of Wairavanua and Vuru villages receive new tools and seedlings thanks to Tau’s support through the Small Grants program
