Winter emergency aid from Diakonie in Schleswig-Holstein begins
Diakonie in Schleswig-Holstein begins its winter emergency aid in cooperation with the local authorities. There is additional accommodation for people without shelter. In addition, warm clothing and sleeping bags are being distributed in day centers and advice centers, as Diakonie announced on Wednesday. The aim is to protect those affected from freezing to death or serious illness. The state is reportedly funding the program with 20,000 euros, while the Diakonie Foundation is contributing 12,500 euros.
According to state pastor and Diakonie board member Heiko Naß, the winter emergency program is aimed at homeless people who "make a flat", i.e. only live on the street. They usually refuse to spend the night in the existing emergency shelters. They often shy away from the difficult living conditions in the shelters, where there is hardly any privacy.
"While we can retreat to our homes when it's cold and wet, people without a home stay on the street and freeze," says Naß. "This puts their health and mental health at great risk."
According to Diakonie, numerous day shelters and advice centers for the homeless are extending their opening hours. Homeless people can warm up there, take a shower, do laundry, access the internet and get hot drinks.
The number of people affected or at risk of homelessness in Schleswig-Holstein has risen in recent years. In 2022, more than 8,800 people made use of the services offered by the diaconal homelessness service. That was a good 1,000 more than in the previous year.
The winter emergency aid from Diakonie in Schleswig-Holstein specifically targets social affairs related to homeless individuals, providing additional accommodation and essential items. The expanded services at day centers and advice centers are crucial for addressing the health and mental well-being of individuals who refuse traditional shelter due to its perceived difficulties.
Source: www.dpa.com
