House Espera opened: New hope for homeless people in Rudolfsheim!

House Espera opened: New hope for homeless people in Rudolfsheim!

In Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, Caritas has opened a new home for the needy. After five years of intensive planning and comprehensive renovation, the “Haus Espera” emergency district was inaugurated on October 7, 2025 in Robert-Hamerling-Gasse. This facility, which was previously known as the "Haus Amadou", represents an important point of contact for people without a claim to social welfare and without health insurance.

The "Haus Espera" offers space for a total of 136 people, including single women, men and families with children. It is particularly noteworthy that 49 of the residents have an escape background. Caritas has designed this emergency accommodation especially for homeless people with escape or migration background. The facility not only receives modern equipment, but also a barrier -free design that creates space for a "climate oasis" on the ground floor, which ensures pleasant temperatures on hot days.

Diverse offers for those affected

In the "Haus Espera" there is more than just a place to sleep. The residents have access to vital goods, psychosocial care and legal advice. According to Caritas, long -term psychosocial care is made possible for up to 1.5 years in order to create perspectives for a self -determined life. Activities such as German courses, support for work and leisure activities are also available. The aim is to cover the basic needs and to promote the integration of newcomers into society.

• Sicherung der Grundbedürfnisse (Lebensmittel, Hygieneartikel, Bekleidung)
• Psychosoziale Betreuung für Familien und Einzelpersonen
• Rechtliche Beratung
• Krisenintervention
• Integrationsmaßnahmen (Deutschkurse, Hilfe bei der Wohnungssuche)
• Unterstützung durch Freiwillige (Lernhilfe, Kinderbetreuung)

The Caritas directorate is aware of the importance of this facility. "The Espera house represents an indispensable network for people who do not have the necessary social and financial resources," emphasizes Caritas Director Klaus Schwertner. The challenges that many people stand in front of should not be underestimated, especially for those with a escape background that often face enormous difficulties.

Financing and commitment

The renovation was partly financed by the EU funding program “NextGenerationEU”, while Caritas relies on numerous donations in order to be able to maintain the diverse offerings. “We are pleased about the commitment of the public, whether through donations of money, goods or time,” emphasizes Schwertner. Those interested have the opportunity to cook for the residents in the gastro kitchen as part of “Social Team Days” or to make donations in kind every day between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Integration is a gradual process that requires mutual efforts. This is not only crucial for the refugees, but also for society as a whole UN Refugee Aid emphasized. In order for the refugees to be able to successfully gain a foothold, both the reciprocal countries and the newcomers must pull together.

The Espera house not only symbolizes a new chapter for many people in Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, but also the commitment and solidarity of the entire society. With a strong support network, hope that every person has the opportunity to live in dignity and to take their life into their own hands.