The Ministry of Youth and Sports is actively seeking safe houses to provide shelter for young individuals living on the streets. Minister Jese Saukuru emphasized the importance of these safe houses in allowing the ministry to monitor and nurture the development of youth as they transition away from homelessness.
“My main concern right now is having a safe house for them,” Minister Saukuru stated, reaffirming that the objective is to prevent these youths from returning to the streets once they are taken in. The planned safe houses will serve as environments where young individuals can receive support, including training facilitated by community groups and stakeholders.
Discussions are currently underway with various government departments to identify potential safe house locations, focusing on urban centers such as Lautoka and Nadi, which have significant street-dwelling populations. Saukuru noted that establishing at least one safe house in these areas would be pivotal for the rehabilitation efforts targeting the 54 street dwellers currently under the ministry’s care.
The initiative resonates with ongoing efforts in Fiji to provide supportive environments for vulnerable populations. For instance, similar discussions have highlighted the necessity of coupling stable accommodation with skill development programs, as emphasized by advocates in the community. The establishment of safe houses is seen as an essential step toward facilitating the youths’ transition into stable employment and housing, such as Hart homes or Public Rental Board flats.
The overarching goal is to create a supportive ecosystem that empowers these young individuals, enabling them to thrive and reintegrate into society successfully. Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, commended these initiatives as significant strides in improving the living conditions and prospects of young street dwellers.
This concerted effort reflects a hopeful future for at-risk youth in Fiji, demonstrating a commitment to fostering resilience and addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by this vulnerable population.
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