In its continuing effort to address  the needs of street dwellers, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through its Social Technology Bureau (STB)  and Field Office-National Capital Region (NCR) organized a workshop participated in by some 60 non-government organization (NGO) representatives from Metro Manila yesterday  to discuss and improve strategies and programs for this sector.

The workshop focused on improving the engagement between DSWD and NGOs to address the gaps and challenges of providing support for street dwellers through community-based programs, services and other appropriate interventions.

In addition, the activity also highlighted the need to harmonize and complement the programs of the government with the assistance provided by civil society organizations (CSOs) and NGOs for street kids and families such as reporting and referrals, public awareness and advocacy raising, capability building, and provision of basic services.

Meanwhile, DSWD Secretary Judy M. Taguiwalo acknowledged the significant contributions of NGOs and CSOs in addressing the needs of children, families, and other individuals at-risk on the streets.

“We have always emphasized that efforts towards the empowerment of poor Filipino families must lead towards the realization and fulfilment of their human and collective rights. However, we still have a long way to go before we achieve this goal. The Department knows that we have to strengthen our collaboration with local governments, NGOs, CSOs, and partner beneficiaries to address the gaps and challenges of addressing the needs and empowering Filipinos at-risk on the streets,” explained Sec. Taguiwalo.  ###