PANAJI
Citing financial constraints, Goa-based NGO Street Providence has announced that it will suspend its free shelter services for the homeless and persons with disabilities from August 1. The organisation has issued a public notice confirming its decision to withdraw from shelter operations for the next eight months.
“Due to unavoidable circumstances and with a deep sense of profound regret, Street Providence, Goa, is exiting the free shelter home services for the homeless and poor with disabilities. Between August 1, 2025 and August 31, 2025, Goa police will be requested to visit our homes and take the residents away,” said trustee Donald Fernandes in a public notice issued on Monday.
“This free service is suspended till March 31, 2026. We thank the Goa police for giving us an opportunity to serve the homeless for the last 8 years. We are grateful to all benefactors for supporting us in the last 8 years,” he added.
The announcement comes just two months after the organisation had warned of a probable shutdown due to lack of funds. Despite appeals and attempts to mobilise support, including a peaceful protest march to the Legislative Assembly last week that was blocked by the police, the NGO has been unable to sustain its operations.
The crisis drew attention of the Goa Legislative Assembly on Monday, wherein Chief Minister Pramod Sawant raised concerns over financial accountability. Street Providence has been active for over eight years, operating shelter homes and providing food and basic care for destitute persons across Goa.
