Fonds Soziales Wien has organized additional accommodations for homeless people in response to the heavy snowfall. A total of 14 additional spaces for emergency overnight admissions have been created, distributed across two existing emergency shelters within the Winter Package program. This was announced by FSW to APA on Friday.
Up to eight inches (20 centimeters) of fresh snow were measured in Vienna within just a few hours. This situation, unusual for the federal capital, could be life-threatening for those affected, it was emphasized. “The renewed onset of winter is creating an extremely challenging time, especially for homeless people,” said FSW Managing Director Susanne Winkler.
Repeated Expansion of Shelter Capacity Due to Cold
The additional spaces are being provided at short notice together with partner organizations. Capacity has already been increased several times this year, as the severe winter has required multiple adjustments. At the end of December, 30 additional spaces were created within the Winter Package due to extreme cold, followed by 40 more at the beginning of January.
The Winter Package of Fonds Soziales Wien includes around 1,000 accommodations each year across 13 emergency shelters. There are also three warming centers. These provide heated daytime stays with capacity for 255 people at a time. According to FSW, the Winter Package services are implemented in addition to the year-round standard services available for homeless and housing-insecure individuals.
Help for Homeless People in Vienna via FSW Cold App
FSW also urges the public to use the free FSW Cold App. Anyone who encounters homeless people exposed to cold in public spaces can use it to inform street social work teams. Reports can be submitted easily and without registration, it is emphasized.
