Homelessness in Vorarlberg: Numbers continue to rise dramatically!

Homelessness in Vorarlberg: Numbers continue to rise dramatically!

The current figures on homelessness in Vorarlberg are causing concern. Michael Hämmerle from the Kaplan Bonetti advisory center reports that there was no relief in 2024 despite a record year in 2023. In the survey period of October 2024, almost 1,400 households used homeless assistance services, which corresponds to a total of 2,812 affected people, including 882 minors. The high number of unreported cases among people over 65 is particularly alarming. Small newspaper reports a six percent increase in the number of cases, which is primarily attributed to high energy costs and the newly created financial aid in 2023. In the following year, however, this aid had little relevance, which points to the precarious situation of many households.

The burden of housing costs is also a central problem in Vorarlberg. According to Hämmerle, 35 percent of the households recorded are affected by housing cost overburden according to the EU definition, which means that more than 40 percent of the household income is spent on housing. In contrast, households in non-profit housing had a housing cost burden of less than 30 percent. Christian Beiser from Caritas warns that many families and individuals are at risk of losing their home or have to live in unsuitable living conditions.

The role of aid organizations

Diakonie offers comprehensive support for those affected by homelessness. It provides around 800 offers nationwide, which include emergency accommodation, outreach assistance, outpatient and inpatient facilities for emergency housing assistance. Diaconia is committed to creating affordable housing and aims to eliminate homelessness and homelessness by 2030.

The causes of homelessness are diverse: They range from rent arrears and economic hardship to critical life events such as separation or unemployment. Homelessness often leads to social isolation, health problems and increased addictive behavior.

The situation in Germany

The problem of housing and homelessness is not just limited to Vorarlberg. At the beginning of 2024, there were around 532,000 homeless people in Germany, including around 47,300 homeless people. The main reason for the loss of housing is rent arrears, as rents continue to rise, especially in large cities. Statista reports that the share of housing costs in 2023 was over a quarter of disposable income for all households and even almost half for households at risk of poverty. The number of social housing units has almost halved in recent years, further exacerbating the situation.

Discussion about solutions to this complex situation is urgently needed. The ARGE Homeless Aid is calling for an increase in non-profit housing construction activity and better protection of services against loss of value. The current cuts in climate bonuses and family benefits in particular could further aggravate the situation of the affected households.