The Catholic Church of Fiji has expressed concern over the fact that a majority of street dwellers in Suva are identified as iTaukei. The church’s ongoing efforts include distributing food packs to those living on the streets.
Ben Salacakau, a representative of the Catholic Church in Fiji, highlighted health concerns stemming from the alarming rise in street dwellers. He emphasized the necessity of developing a comprehensive plan to tackle this growing issue.
Salacakau pointed out that the increasing number of iTaukei individuals in this situation requires a united response from families and communities. He noted, “We have identified this as a significant problem, not just for us, but for the individuals’ families and their response to it.”
The situation of street dwellers in Suva, similar to that in many urban areas, poses significant challenges for local communities, including churches and various organizations. Salacakau mentioned that churches often feel a strong obligation to assist those in need, providing immediate support such as food and shelter, as well as longer-term solutions like counseling and job training.
“We run a food and nutrition program, with regular food distributions and soup kitchens to ensure that those living on the streets have access to healthy meals,” he commented. He also stressed the importance of offering counseling services to tackle mental health issues and substance abuse problems contributing to homelessness.
Salacakau pointed out that street dwellers are often vulnerable to violence and exploitation, highlighting the necessity of providing assistance that ensures their safety and security. He noted the inadequacy of infrastructure to support shelters and services for this population as another pressing challenge.
Furthermore, Salacakau mentioned that social stigma and discrimination often hinder street dwellers from accessing services or reintegrating into society. He stated, “This stigma can adversely affect the community’s willingness to support initiatives.”
He called for increased advocacy and awareness about the challenges faced by street dwellers, urging for better policies and support systems at both local and national levels.