As winter temperatures plunge and the harshness of cold weather takes hold, the most vulnerable members of our society—homeless individuals—are faced with the life-threatening challenges of surviving in freezing conditions. For those without the warmth and safety of a home, the cold can quickly become a deadly adversary. The impact of extreme cold on the homeless is severe and multifaceted, which underscores the importance of social shelters in offering protection and hope during these bleak months.
In the face of such harsh conditions, social shelters—temporary housing and warming centers—play an indispensable role in protecting the homeless population. These shelters provide not only a safe place to sleep but also access to critical resources like food, medical care, and social services. For many, shelters are a lifeline that can mean the difference between survival and tragedy.
Emergency shelters are often the first point of contact for homeless individuals in cold weather. During the winter months, many shelters expand their capacity and extend hours to accommodate more people. These shelters provide essential warmth, protection, and a bed to sleep in, shielding people from exposure to the elements.
On average, in Romania’s capital, there are currently about 1,500 homeless people, according to the City Hall of Bucharest (PMB). The ‘housing first’ solution is still not on the table for the Bucharest city halls. PMB has been striving for over 5 years to complete a social housing block for 114 disadvantaged families. Some sector city halls are still building social housing. For example, the Sector 6 City Hall has built 246 apartments, which they could make available for use.
While shelters are crucial during extreme weather, they are ultimately a short-term solution to a long-term problem. The true challenge lies in addressing the root causes of homelessness, which can include factors such as unemployment, addiction, mental health issues, and the lack of affordable housing. The winter season may bring temporary relief through shelters, but the need for sustainable housing solutions remains constant.
Nicoleta Gontariu – Communication’s Coordinator Asociatia Casa Ioana