New School Lunch Program Warehouse going up behind TCF

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The dedication ceremony for the new School Lunch Program Warehouse was held behind the Tafuna Correctional Facility at the site of the former juvenile correction center, this past Thursday, where the new facilities will be located.

Governor Lemanu P.S. Mauga emphasized the important role of the School Lunch Program, “Not only providing meals for students but also serving as a platform for local farmers and businesses to sell their produce.

“Supporting the local private sector through government programs and projects is a priority,” he said.

Lemanu also addressed the new warehouse location, “The location was chosen carefully to ensure easy access, minimize traffic, and provide ample space for container deliveries and storage.”

American Samoa Dept. of Education director, Talauega Dr. Samasoni Asaeli, thanked the School Lunch Program staff, emphasizing the vital role they play in providing meals for children. He said that without proper nutrition, particularly breakfast, students would struggle to stay focused throughout the day.

Lively Architect designed the blueprint for the new School Lunch Program Warehouse, with the Silva Group Corporation selected as the project contractor. The construction is set to last 500 calendar days, with a total cost of $8.19 million. The warehouse will cover an area of 28,000 square feet.

Reverend Iese Fa’avaoga of CCCAS Leone led the opening prayer, sharing words of encouragement at the Thursday, Oct. 17, event. He referenced the book of Psalms, emphasizing that without God's guidance, our efforts are in vain, and that seeking His blessings is essential for the success of any project.

Attending the dedication ceremony with the Governor were Lt. Governor La’apui Talauega E.V. Ale, members of the Fono, Cabinet members, and guests.

BACKGROUND

Samoa News notes that in September of this year a new juvenile detention center and alternative school groundbreaking ceremony took place, and it will be located close to the TAOA center.

According to the Public Works Director Faleosina Voigt the new juvenile facility will be a two-story building designed to accommodate correctional youth while ensuring a safe environment for security personnel, educators, and guidance counselors.

The former juvenile correction center was demolished after it was shutdown due to it becoming unfit for occupation.