Fiji’s first ever shelter for beggars will soon be opened to bring down the number of those begging on the streets of Suva City.

Social Welfare Minister Dr Jiko Luveni said two buildings donated by the Nazarene Church will be renovated for this purpose.

She said along with establishing an accommodation, income generating programmes will also be implemented for these street beggars.

The Ministry of Social Welfare gave a grant of $100, 000 to The Nazarene Church for the renovation of two of their buildings at Colo-I-Suva and the implementation of phase 1 of the programme.

$60,000 from the total sum will go towards the renovation works.

Luveni said there are about 40 beggars who are usually seen on the streets of Suva City and following an assessment, those in dire need will be accommodated at the centre.

She said in the first phase, 15 beggars will be accommodated at the centre.


Story by: Sheetal Kumar