A faith-driven calling to walk alongside returnees in Tonga.
Anchored to Grace Foundation is a 501(c)(3) registered non-profit organization in the USA, operating in Alakifonua, Tonga under the guidance of men and women who seek to live and emulate the life of Jesus Christ — serving and caring for those without hope or community.
Our mission is inspired and fueled by the story of Tunufa’i Tongilava, the younger brother of one of our founders, Lili Puailoa. Tunufa’i and his family migrated to the USA when he was just two years old. As a teenager and into his young adult years, Tunufa’i took interest in drawing art which shortly after turned into graffiti vandalism. In 1996, at age 18 — after serving time for several counts of graffiti vandalism on the freeways of Los Angeles — Tunufa’i was deported back to Tonga, a homeland he barely knew. For the first time in his life, Tunufa’i experienced homelessness, over time fell into substance addiction and has lived in social isolation for three decades.
Returnees often face deep barriers: social stigma, cultural disconnection, housing instability, limited employment, and few structured reintegration programs. Anchored to Grace was born to fill that gap. Our goal is to help ensure that individuals with stories similar to Tunufa’i’s will be re-affirmed and restored to live the purposeful life that God created them for.
Every life we walk alongside is shaped by these guiding commitments — rooted in scripture, expressed in service.
Reawakening the heart to the promises of God for every returnee.
Reclaiming their identity as beloved children of God and sons and daughters of Tonga.
Building physical, emotional, and spiritual resilience for the journey.
Replacing shame with the dignity that belongs to every image-bearer.
Restoring relationships with family, community, and the Father.
Equipping returnees to finish strong — in faith and in life.