The Catholic Church in Fiji has expressed concern over the increasing number of street dwellers in Suva, most of whom are identified as iTaukei. As part of their daily efforts, the church distributes food packs to those living on the streets. Ben Salacakau, a representative of the church, highlighted the health implications of the growing street population as a pressing issue.
Salacakau emphasized the need for a coordinated plan to address the challenges posed by this situation, urging families and communities to take collective action in response to the rising numbers of iTaukei individuals on the streets. He pointed out that this issue affects not just the individuals but also their families and communities.
Street dwellers in Suva present a significant challenge for local communities, including various organizations and churches. Salacakau noted that churches often feel a profound obligation to assist those in distress by providing not only immediate aid like food and shelter but also long-term support such as counseling and job training.
The church has implemented a food and nutrition program along with regular food distributions and soup kitchens to ensure that those on the streets have access to nutritious meals. Salacakau stressed the importance of offering counseling services to tackle mental health issues and substance abuse, which may contribute to homelessness.
He also highlighted the vulnerabilities street dwellers face, including exposure to violence and exploitation, underscoring the necessity for safe and secure assistance. Additionally, inadequate infrastructure for shelters and services poses significant challenges for supporting street dwellers.
The stigma and discrimination faced by these individuals often hinder their ability to access services and reintegrate into society, affecting the broader community’s willingness to participate in supportive initiatives. Salacakau noted that a lack of coordination among various organizations, including government agencies, NGOs, and religious groups, can result in fragmented services and inefficiencies.
He is advocating for greater awareness and advocacy concerning the challenges faced by street dwellers and is calling for improved policies and support systems at both local and national levels.