The Catholic Church in Fiji has expressed concern over the rising number of street dwellers in Suva, particularly noting that most of them are iTaukei. As part of their ongoing efforts, the church distributes food packs to those living on the streets.
Ben Salacakau, a representative of the Catholic Church in Fiji, highlighted health concerns related to the significant increase in street dwellers and emphasized the need for a strategic plan to address this situation. He pointed out that the growing number of iTaukei individuals experiencing homelessness requires a collaborative response from families and communities.
Salacakau described the issue as a pressing problem not only for the church but also for the families affected, calling for concerted efforts to tackle the challenges faced by these individuals. Street dwellers have become a major concern for local communities, including various organizations and churches.
Mr. Salacakau mentioned that churches often feel a strong obligation to assist those in need, providing immediate relief such as food and shelter, as well as long-term support including counseling and job training. The church has implemented a food and nutrition program, conducting regular food distributions and operating soup kitchens to ensure that individuals living on the streets receive nutritious meals.
He noted the necessity of offering counseling services to address potential mental health issues and substance abuse, which may contribute to homelessness. Additionally, he pointed out that street dwellers are often vulnerable to violence and exploitation, making it essential to provide assistance that prioritizes their safety and security.
Challenges such as insufficient infrastructure to support shelters and services for street dwellers also persist. Salacakau highlighted that those living on the streets frequently encounter social stigma and discrimination, hindering their ability to access services or reintegrate into society. This stigma can deter the wider community from supporting initiatives aimed at helping these individuals.
Furthermore, he stressed that a lack of coordination among various organizations, including government agencies, NGOs, and religious groups, often results in fragmented services and inefficiencies. As a solution, he is advocating for increased awareness and advocacy concerning the difficulties faced by street dwellers, and for the development of better policies and support systems at both local and national levels.