The Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection is taking significant steps towards establishing a halfway house in Nadi, driven by a pressing need to support the increasing number of beggars and street dwellers, according to Minister Sashi Kiran. A halfway house offers a transitional living space intended to assist individuals facing challenges such as substance abuse, mental health issues, or those reintegrating after incarceration.

Minister Kiran highlighted the success of similar facilities already developed in Suva, underscoring a proven model that can be adapted for Nadi. She encouraged community members who wish to assist beggars to direct individuals to existing shelters such as Saint Vincent’s Home, which provides a safe haven for those in need. The Ministry is collaborating closely with several local organizations, including the Salvation Army, to create tailored solutions for over 100 identified individuals.

The complexity of reintegrating these individuals back into their families has been acknowledged by Ms. Kiran, noting the slow progress in these efforts. In Nadi, the Ministry is engaged with local agencies to explore the establishment of a halfway house, although securing involvement from organizations has been challenging due to the intricate nature of the cases involved.

In this context, it’s important to recognize that the Ministry is also working in consultation with police and various government departments, including those responsible for youth, housing, and local governance, to tackle the broader issue of habitual begging within the community.

Local business leaders have expressed concerns about how the presence of street dwellers affects community safety and cleanliness, emphasizing the need for a collective and proactive approach to support vulnerable populations while maintaining a safe and hospitable environment for businesses.

Overall, the efforts being made to address homelessness and the needs of vulnerable individuals signal a hopeful outlook for the Nadi community. By fostering collaboration and dialogue among various stakeholders, there is potential for developing effective solutions that not only support those in need but also benefit local businesses and enhance community wellbeing. This approach reflects a compassionate understanding of the challenges at hand and a commitment to creating a nurturing environment for all.