A man living with a disability is facing hardship after his monthly social welfare payments were stopped because his family earns a small income from selling fruit.
The issue was raised during a workshop organised by Aruka Fiji, which brought together government officials and stakeholders to discuss challenges faced by vulnerable people and the support available to them.
Workshop participant Mereseni Rawaqa said the decision to stop welfare payments had placed significant strain on the man and his family.
“This person is disabled. He used to receive monthly financial assistance, but it was suddenly stopped,” she said.
According to Ms Rawaqa, Social Welfare Department officials told the family the payments had ended because they were earning money.
“When his parents went to the Social Welfare office to ask why, they were told the payments had ended because the family sells produce like pawpaw and bananas,” she said.
However, she said the money from selling fruits was minimal.
“Some days they earn about $20, other days maybe $40. That is not enough to meet the family’s needs.”
Ms Rawaqa said she was now trying to assist the man continue his education or develop new skills.
“I am helping him enrol at a centre so he can continue his studies or gain skills,” she said.
Responding to the concerns, Ministry of Social Protection welfare officer Josefa Banivalu said the assistance was intended for the individual living with a disability, not the household.
“This assistance is for the individual. If there is an issue, the family can come to our office, and we will look into why the payments were stopped,” he said.
Mr Banivalu said such matters were best addressed directly with the ministry.
