The Catholic Church in Fiji has expressed concern over the rising number of street dwellers in Suva, with a significant portion being identified as iTaukei. As part of its mission, the church regularly distributes food packs to those living on the streets.
Ben Salacakau, a representative of the church, highlighted the health implications arising from this increase. He stated, “We will need to roll out a plan to address this issue,” emphasizing the need for collective action from families and communities.
Salacakau noted that the situation poses a significant challenge not only for the church but for the families of these individuals as well. Street dwellers in urban areas are a pressing concern for local communities, as churches and various organizations strive to assist them.
He pointed out that churches often feel a strong obligation to support those in need, providing immediate assistance like food and shelter, as well as long-term help including counseling and job training. “We have a food and nutrition program, with regular food distributions and soup kitchens to ensure that those living on the streets have access to nutritious meals,” he explained.
There is also a pressing need for mental health services to address issues such as substance abuse contributing to homelessness. Street dwellers often face vulnerabilities such as violence and exploitation, making it essential to provide support for their safety and security.
Salacakau mentioned that inadequate infrastructure hampers efforts to support shelters and services for these individuals. Additionally, social stigma and discrimination hinder their ability to access necessary services or reintegrate into society. He cautioned that this stigma can also impact the community’s willingness to support various initiatives.
Moreover, he emphasized the lack of coordination among organizations—including government agencies, NGOs, and religious groups—as a reason for disjointed services. Salacakau is calling for increased advocacy and awareness regarding the challenges faced by street dwellers, advocating for improved policies and support mechanisms at both local and national levels.