The Catholic Church of Fiji has expressed concern over the rising number of street dwellers in Suva, with a significant portion identified as iTaukei. As part of their mission, the church distributes food packs to those living on the streets.
Ben Salacakau, a representative of the Catholic Church, highlighted the urgent health concerns stemming from this increase in homelessness. He emphasized the need for a collaborative plan to tackle the issue, stating, “The increase in the number of iTaukei requires a joint effort from families and communities.”
Salacakau noted that the situation is not only a concern for the church but also for the individual families of those affected. Street dwellers pose a considerable challenge for local communities, including religious organizations.
The church feels a strong obligation to aid those in need, providing immediate relief through food and shelter as well as long-term assistance such as counseling and job training. According to Salacakau, “We have a food and nutrition program, along with regular food distributions and soup kitchens to ensure access to nutritious meals for those living on the streets.”
He pointed out the importance of offering counseling to address mental health and substance abuse issues that may contribute to homelessness. Street dwellers are often exposed to violence and exploitation, making their safety and security paramount.
A lack of adequate infrastructure to support shelters and services for these individuals poses another challenge. Salacakau also mentioned the social stigma and discrimination faced by street dwellers, which can hinder their access to services and reintegration into society. “This stigma can also affect the broader community’s willingness to support initiatives,” he added.
Moreover, he noted that a lack of coordination among various organizations, including government agencies, NGOs, and faith groups, often leads to fragmented services and inefficiencies. Salacakau is advocating for increased awareness and advocacy regarding the challenges faced by street dwellers, calling for improved policies and support systems at both local and national levels.