Cologne in the fight against homelessness: Finnish model as a hope wearer!

Cologne in the fight against homelessness: Finnish model as a hope wearer!

Mülheim, Deutschland - Homelessness in Cologne should be a thing of the past by 2030. This ambitious plan is promoted by a proposal by Pastor Meurer and other committed citizens. They are based on the successful Finnish model, which promises a fundamental realignment of the homeless help. According to information from ksta.de , this concept is based on the principles of "Housing First", which aims at considering living space as fundamental rights and thus the first step for a rein-fitting society set.

The concept stipulates that foundations or committed patron buildings build or acquire apartments and then provide the homeless. The state share of the rent takes on a central role, while additional social offers such as medical and psychological support are provided. This comprehensive model has helped Finland to significantly reduce the number of homeless people in recent years. Since the introduction of the "Housing First" program, the numbers have been more than halved-from 8,260 in 2008 to 3,686 in 2022, as the Tagesschau

success model Finland

Finland's strategy of unconditional housing gift also led to a rethink in the political discussion. The equality of living with a fundamental right is increasing more and more in Germany. During a delegation trip in Finland, Minister Geywitz emphasized the need to find similar solutions for homelessness in this country. Social support for such concepts is becoming increasingly important, statistics and initiatives in Germany are taking the example of Finland as a model for effective measures in the planning. There are already some initiatives in Cologne that take care of the homeless, such as the social service of Catholic men (SKM), the Bethe Foundation and the initiative "Giving art helps".

The situation in Cologne

Despite these positive approaches, the problem of homelessness in Cologne grows. The city fights with an increasing shortage of housing and the neglect of various districts. This once again shows the urgency of working with a lighthouse project against homelessness. As the ksta.de , the new mayor urgently needs to rely on the political agenda. The model is supported by various organizations such as the Vrings-Treff and the Arche in Mülheim, who offer advice and meals.

The experiences from Finland show that access to a stable living relationship is the prerequisite for successful reintegration into society. The transition from the street to its own apartment not only improves quality of life, but also brings long -term health benefits. However, too few social housing are available in Cologne to meet all the needs. Therefore, an increasing need for patrons and foundations to support the Housing First concept was found.

The way forward

The year-round support from soup kitchens, medical facilities such as Maltese medicine and the outpatient clinic Caya as well as other social facts are important to meet the current challenges. Projects for the preservation of living space and the support of other social programs are now more than ever required. For example, the Finnish model prioritizes the provision of apartments in front of other help offers and thus shows an integrative approach that Germany should also take on. It is crucial for the implementation that politics creates the right framework to adapt the successful concept of the northern countries.