The Catholic Church in Fiji has expressed concern over the rising number of street dwellers in Suva, predominantly comprising iTaukei individuals. The church is actively involved in providing food packs to those living on the streets.
Ben Salacakau, a representative of the church, highlighted that the increase in street dwellers poses significant health risks. He emphasized the need for a collective response from families and communities to address this growing issue.
“We consider this a major problem, not only for our organization but for the families of those affected as well,” Salacakau remarked. Street dwellers, like in many urban areas, are a pressing concern for local churches and community organizations.
Salacakau noted that churches often feel it is their duty to provide immediate assistance through food and shelter, as well as longer-term support such as counseling and job training. “We have initiated a food and nutrition program, along with regular distributions and soup kitchens, to ensure that street dwellers have access to healthy meals,” he added.
He pointed out the necessity for counseling services to tackle mental health issues and substance abuse, which may contribute to homelessness. Additionally, street dwellers are frequently vulnerable to violence and exploitation, underscoring the importance of providing safe assistance.
The lack of adequate infrastructure for shelters and services also presents a challenge. According to Salacakau, street dwellers often encounter social stigma and discrimination, complicating their access to necessary services or reintegration into society. This stigma can deter broader community support for initiatives aimed at assisting them.
Moreover, he noted that a lack of coordination between various organizations, including government agencies, NGOs, and religious groups, can result in fragmented services and inefficiencies. Salacakau is advocating for increased awareness and advocacy regarding the challenges faced by street dwellers, urging for improved policies and support systems at both local and national levels.