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VinziRast in Meidling: Offering 48 homeless people a warm home!
The VinziRast emergency shelter in Meidling offers homeless people a temporary home, supported by donations and volunteers.
VinziRast in Meidling: Offering 48 homeless people a warm home!
On October 10th, on the occasion of International Homelessness Day, VinziRast in Meidling opened its doors and gave an impression of the important homeless assistance. The emergency shelter, which was founded in 2003, provides a temporary home for up to 48 homeless people every night. Here guests not only receive a bed and a warm dinner, but also support in the form of clothing. The stay is limited to up to 30 days, and VinziRast accepts people of all origins, genders or residence status, provided they behave peacefully and considerately.
As Silvia Blahacek, the facility's spokeswoman, emphasizes, humanity is very important in the emergency shelter. This important work is supported by over 300 volunteers and those affected themselves, who often need courage to take these steps and get involved in VinziRast. It offers a feeling of cohesion and security, which is particularly essential in times of uncertainty and upheaval.
The current situation of the homeless in Vienna
The situation for homeless people in Vienna has worsened in recent years. According to current figures, more than half of the homeless people registered in Austria, namely 11,400 out of 20,573, live in the federal capital. According to estimates, the number of unreported cases could be even higher. After the corona pandemic, the number of homeless people is increasing, while tolerance in society is increasingly decreasing. Christian Wetschka, a board member of VinziRast, addresses the high rates of victimization among homeless people - around 90% are affected by discrimination and violence.
Particular attention is paid to hidden homelessness, which often affects women in precarious situations. Blahacek and Wetschka criticize simple solutions such as the winter package, which only provides 1,000 places for the cold season, and advocate a more comprehensive approach. They make it clear that the causes of homelessness, often mental illnesses or a lack of a social safety net, have not yet been adequately addressed.
Important help and support
The work of VinziRast is financed exclusively through private donations. Both monetary and in-kind donations are welcome, with the items needed on their website vinzirast.at are listed. It turns out that the support of volunteers is of great importance not only for those affected, but also for society. They not only bring a helping hand, but also a sign of solidarity and community.
In addition to sleeping places and emergency shelter options, the City of Vienna emphasizes the role of day centers. These provide a safe space where homeless people can receive first aid and advice. In winter, capacities are expanded to accommodate additional overnight accommodations. Street social workers from “Obdach weg” are also active on the streets to build long-term relationships and introduce people without home to suitable offers.
At a time when the challenges facing homeless people seem greater than ever, VinziRast's work is an encouraging example of community engagement. Not only is there help here, but there is also hope.