A relief fund was established immediately following the devastating Tropical Cyclone Winston that destroyed communities throughout the Fijian Islands on February 20. The funds will assist those most directly impacted by the category five storm that has left thousands without essential shelter, water and power and has cut off roadways and major transportation routes.

“Many of our staff come from, or have families living in, villages or on islands that have been hard hit,” said MWH Fiji Country Manager Mike Rudge. “The loss of human lives, homes and livelihoods prompted an immediate response from the MWH global network of employees and its Caring Foundation.”

The Foundation, established in 2002 funds causes that align with the firm’s purpose of Building a Better World. The fund has since donated more than $1M (USD) to charitable, educational and relief organizations around the world.

“The heavily damaged areas are hometowns for many of our colleagues,” said Marshall Davert. “Right now, we’re working to provide immediate assistance, food and clothing to our team members who have lost their homes or whose homes have been heavily damaged. We will be here working side-by-side with the Fijian Government to assist in rebuilding these communities.”

MWH has more than 150 employees working in Fiji.