Housing First: 227 homeless people provided with accommodation

Thanks to Housing First, homeless people can find a flat without major hurdles.

From the street to a flat of their own: As part of the ‘Housing First’ project, Berlin organisations have found flats for 227 homeless people so far. In total, 204 tenancy agreements have been arranged, a social services officer told the German Press Agency. It is noteworthy that far more than 90 per cent stay in their flats long-term.

Housing First has been providing low-threshold housing for homeless people in Berlin since October 2018. Previously, they had to fulfil many requirements, including getting to grips with possible debts or addiction. However, many failed to do so. However, finding accommodation is just the first step. The people also receive educational and psychological support afterwards.

Successful flat search despite the difficult housing market

Just a few days ago, a homeless woman found her own flat in Zehlendorf after years on the streets and in precarious accommodation. She will also be living with her children again, the Housing First project announced on Facebook. ‘Berlin-Zehlendorf, new build, first occupancy, three rooms, all for just under 800 euros. Of course, she will be supported in all matters by our multi-professional team for as long as she wishes and as necessary. Everyone involved is very happy,’ it continued.

New providers for different target groups

Housing First was trialled for the first time as part of two pilot projects from October 2018 to September 2021. They are organised by Neue Chance gGmbH together with Berliner Stadtmission (Housing First Berlin project) and Sozialdienst katholischer Frauen. According to the Sozialverwaltung, the former pilot projects account for the lion's share with 174 tenancy agreements. Last year, four other organisations were launched: the Phinove association, Schwulenberatung Berlin, ZIK gGmbH and My Way Soziale Dienste, each of which focuses on different target groups. In the newly launched projects, housing placement is gaining momentum, as sustainable relationships with landlords first had to be established in the first few months of the project set-up, explained the administration officer.