How you can help fight homelessness in Germany this holiday season

"Homelessness in Germany has reached alarming levels, with over half a million people lacking permanent accommodation as of early 2025. The crisis affects men and women of all ages, with families and young people increasingly at risk. As winter intensifies the dangers faced by those without shelter, we look at how residents in Germany can support some of the social welfare organisations working to alleviate homelessness."

"The scale of the problem: Who Is most affected? Recent government reports reveal that homelessness in Germany is on the rise. As of early 2025, more than 500,000 people in Germany did not have a permanent home - significantly more than two years ago. Of those, the majority, at around 440,000 are accommodated in emergency housing, while a further 60,000 are thought to stay with relatives or friends. Still tens of thousands of people are living on the streets or in makeshift shelters in Germany."

"The sharp increase in homelessness is partly attributed to improved data collection and the inclusion of Ukrainian refugees, who now make up nearly a third of those accommodated in shelters. Homelessness is not just an urban issue; it affects families, young people and individuals across the country and many report accompanying problems such as illness, discrimination and violence. Social welfare associations describe homelessness as "the most extreme form of poverty in our society," calling for rapid and targeted assistance, especially for families with children."

Homelessness in Germany has surpassed 500,000 people as of early 2025, with roughly 440,000 housed in emergency accommodation and about 60,000 staying with relatives or friends. Tens of thousands remain on streets or in makeshift shelters, and families, young people and individuals across the country are increasingly affected. The rise is partly linked to improved data collection and the inclusion of Ukrainian refugees, who comprise nearly a third of shelter residents. Many people experiencing homelessness face illness, discrimination and violence. Social welfare associations call homelessness the most extreme form of poverty and urge rapid, targeted assistance, particularly for families with children. Winter increases life-threatening risks, and residents can support social welfare organisations working to alleviate homelessness.

Read at The Local Germany