Members of the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, Lautoka branch, went ahead with their regular city clean-up campaign on Saturday morning despite sudden heavy rain.
The clean-up was held at Navutu, the main roundabout and towards the Natabua junction, with around 30 volunteers, including children, taking part.
The volunteers collected plastic, cans, bottles and paper waste from roadside walkways and drains, filling 12 large sacks of rubbish.
Lautoka Town Council also assisted with the disposal of the collected waste.
A church representative says the clean-up reflects their commitment to keeping Lautoka clean, reducing environmental pollution, teaching young people civic responsibility and contributing positively to the wider community.
Local member Faga Jo says volunteering in the rain was a way of giving back to the nation, supporting the Government and serving the church, adding that caring for the environment is a shared responsibility.
Another volunteer, Rita, says the team remained united despite the weather, giving their time to care for the environment and thanking God for bringing them together.
Peni Nabainivalu says although the weather conditions were challenging, it did not stop them from helping clean Lautoka, adding that serving the community and practising what they preach is done willingly and with love.
The Shincheonji Church says it plans to continue its clean-up campaigns and expand into other volunteer initiatives to support health, hygiene and community wellbeing in Lautoka.
