Street kids issue being addressed

 By MIRIAM MALAWA

WORLD Vision will address the issue of street kids after launching its Children in the Streets Situation project in Port Moresby yesterday.

It is one of the four projects by World Vision and aims to create a protective environment for children living in the streets.

It targets children aged 15 and below, especially in four identified settlements of Port Moresby. 

The project began conducting rapid assessment in 2012 after it saw that number of street children was increasing.

World Vision country director Dr Curt Von Buguslawski said it was said to see children on the roads and streets in   the city.

Buguslawski said they were raising awareness with parents, churches, government, partners and community leaders to assist children enjoy a more secure and safer   life. 

“I am humble and thankful to see other partners that have already targeted and worked with these children. It is important to invest in our own people in the course of such projects that address children in streets and who need help to improve their livelihood,” he said.

National Capital District metropolitan commander Supt Andy Bawa said he also was a street kid and wanted the issue addressed.

“As parents we have a bigger opportunity to give them an opportunity in life. They are forced to do what they do because parents do not give them the love and care needed,” he said.

He said taking children off the streets made police work easier.