Three and half years ago, when ex-offender Kelepi Saulaca entered the gates of Korovou Prison in Suva, he had lost hope of ever being forgiven by his family and community.

However, hope comes in many forms and for Kelepi it came in the form of the Fiji Prisons and Corrections Service’s (FPCS) Yellow Ribbon Programme and the deep love of his family and community.

Accompanied by officials from the FPCS, Kelepi made the five hour journey back to his village Tavualevu in the Western Division with great trepidation.

Like the lyrics in the hit 70s song ‘Tie a yellow ribbon around the old oak tree, Kelepi was not sure of whether he would be welcomed back or not.

This was despite assurances from his close family members that all was forgiven and there was a place for him back home.

On entering his village, all hope returned when Kelepi saw all the trees leading into the village adorned with yellow ribbons and a banner displaying the message ‘Welcome Home Son’.

There was not a dry set eyes as Kelepi’s MUM Ms Arieta Vakawale hugged her son in the presence of all the members of the village community.

Even the famous and renowned group Waikoula kei Tavua were on hand to dedicate songs for the return of the prodigal son.

An emotional mum Ms Vakawale with tears streaming down her face thanked the FPCS for looking after her son and for brining him back safely to her.

"This Yellow Ribbon Project has helped tremendously, everything begins at home, if the house is weak, it will collapse.

Kelepi's  return to his family is part of the Fiji Prisons and Correctional Service’s rehabilitation and Yellow Ribbon Project to ensure that ex-offenders are given a second with the acceptance of family and the community.

www.corrections.org.fj