The Frank Hilton Organization has officially launched the 10th Amazing Wheelbarrow Race, celebrating a decade of community and corporate support for children with disabilities across Fiji.

Speaking at the launch in Suva, Chief Executive Officer Sureni Perera described the event’s growth from a simple idea into a nationwide movement bringing together businesses, volunteers, diplomats, and the wider community in support of vulnerable children and families.

Eighteen corporate teams have already confirmed participation in this year’s event, reflecting strong backing from Fiji’s business sector ahead of the race.

The Amazing Wheelbarrow Race remains a key fundraiser for the organization, which provided services to around 700 families in 2025 alone. More than 66 percent of the children supported were under the age of five, highlighting the increasing importance of early intervention services.

During the same period, the organization delivered close to 7,000 direct contact sessions, particularly in communities with limited access to specialised support services.

Over the past three years, the organization has experienced a 70 percent rise in assessments and a 134 percent increase in caseloads, leading to growing waiting lists as demand for services continues to climb.

The Frank Hilton Organization remains Fiji’s only provider of a full range of specialised disability services, including speech therapy, audiology, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, psychological assessments, behavioural support, residential care, and special education services.

Despite receiving approximately $1.1 million annually through the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, the organization says the funding only covers 63 percent of operational costs, leaving a significant funding gap that must be supported through fundraising initiatives and corporate partnerships.

Last year’s Wheelbarrow Race raised more than $166,000, while this year’s target is between $260,000 and $300,000 to help maintain essential services for children and families.

Ms. Perera said the organization is not seeking sympathy, but long-term investment in children’s futures, stressing that quality care and inclusion are fundamental rights for all children.

The 10th Amazing Wheelbarrow Race is expected to be one of the organizations biggest events yet as it continues its mission of supporting children with disabilities and their families throughout Fiji.