Day of the Homeless on September 11

With autumn approaching and the nights getting colder, the issue of homelessness is once again coming to the fore. On Homeless Day on September 11, the city of Jena is making it clear that support for people without a fixed abode is a permanent task - regardless of the season. The aim is to prevent homelessness, alleviate existing emergencies and reintegrate affected people more strongly into society.

The basis for the current measures is the City of Jena's Homelessness Report, which was compiled by the Social Services Department and presented to the Social Affairs Committee. It comprehensively analyzes the situation and identifies the need for action, which is now being addressed step by step.

Existing services in Jena

• Accommodation: Transitional hostels, interim housing and emergency accommodation ensure that no one in the city has to remain without a roof over their head.
• Advice & support: Specialist offices provide early advice in the event of imminent loss of housing, support with rent debts and work closely with job centers, independent agencies and landlords.
• Street social work: employees are out and about in the city, talking to those affected and building trust.

Planned further developments

• Day-structuring services: Low-threshold places are planned where homeless people can find rest, care and advice.
• Guidelines for landlords: It is intended to help stabilize tenancies and prevent homelessness.
• Public relations work: More information should reduce prejudices and strengthen solidarity in urban society.

Kathleen Lützkendorf, Head of Department for Social Affairs, Health, Immigration and Climate, emphasizes: "Homelessness always means being excluded. The city of Jena is building long-term structures: from prevention and accommodation to new prospects for a self-determined life. My special thanks go to the Refugee Affairs & Transitional Homes team in the Social Services Department. It has worked hard on the Homelessness Report and is constantly developing the services on offer. I would also like to thank everyone who is involved in this area - whether full-time or on a voluntary basis."

With the homelessness report, the city of Jena has created a clear basis for identifying needs in a targeted manner and further developing services in a tailored manner. This makes it clear that homelessness assistance in Jena is not a one-off emergency program, but part of a long-term responsibility.