Beggary is a major social evil of society which produces many other social tribulations. Its prevalence is increasing day by day. In fact it has taken a form of mafia that has evolved beggary as an occupation. Government of Punjab took the first step toward eradication of beggary and Department of Social Welfare established a Beggar’s Home in Lahore in the year 2014. The home has the capacity to accommodate 100 persons at a time.
Admission Procedure
The admission procedure includes:
- Beggars rounded up by police are admitted in the Home.
- All particulars of each beggar are recorded in a register and later interviewed by Social Welfare Officer who prepares the case history of each beggar
- In case of a child beggar, he/ she is referred to Child Protection Bureau. However, in case of a child accompanying a female beggar (mother) and those who are under the age of 5 years, then the child is allowed to stay with the mother
Facilities
Following facilities are provided to the beggars admitted in the home:
Boarding and Lodging
Department provide free boarding and lodging facilities.
Medical Treatment
Free medical treatment is provided to the beggars residing in the home.
Vocational Training
Vocational skill training/ technical education for the inmates of welfare home are arranged on the notion that if they are trained with some craft they would be able to earn their livelihood instead of begging alms. Separate vocational training class for female beggars and primary classes for children are also arranged.
Religious Education
Arrangement of religious education is made to impart religious and moral values to beggars. For this purpose the religious teacher organize the prayers and teaching of Holy Quran for residents & their children.
Security Agency
Since the nature of this institution is very sensitive hence it requires extra measures to be taken for ensuring the safety and protection of the inmates. Therefore a private security agency has been hired to take care of security matters.