A NEW haven for Fiji’s abandoned and vulnerable children has officially opened its doors in Meigunyah, Nadi. Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran launched the Phos Haven Care Home yesterday.
The residential home provides refuge for 12 children and young adults, including five living with disabilities and four who require long-term ongoing support.
Officiating at the opening ceremony, Ms Kiran commended the home’s caregivers, trustees, donors, and volunteers for offering high-risk youth a vital sense of belonging.
“This is what makes Phos Haven very special,it is committed to providing specialised care and a loving sanctuary for the abandoned children, including children with disabilities,” Ms Kiran said.
She emphasised that safeguarding youth remained a collective effort requiring unified action across government agencies, faith organisations, and local communities.
“Every child in Fiji has the right to grow up safe, respected and supported to reach their full potential,” she said.
Phos Haven operates as a charitable trust designed to support disadvantaged youth lacking adequate family networks.
The organisation’s future plans include building an Emergency Child Services Centre alongside a specialised transition facility in Sigatoka to assist young adults with disabilities who are unable to live independently.
Ms Kiran noted that community contributions to the sanctuary reflected the traditional Fijian spirit of solesolevaki, working together for the common good.
Meanwhile, reports revealed that between 2012 and 2025, official records logged 16,770 child abuse cases in Fiji, with more than 5000 involving severe neglect.
Minister for Women,Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran takes a tour of the Phos Haven Care Home in Meigunyah, Nadi.
RIGHT: Minister for Women,Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran unveils the signboard of the Phos Haven Care Home. Pictures: FIJIAN GOVERNMENT
Minister for Women,Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran during the opening of the Phos Haven Care Home in Meigunyah, Nadi. Picture: FIJIAN GOVERNMENT
