Weißfrauenkirche saves homeless people: 47 sleeping places in Frankfurt!

Weißfrauenkirche saves homeless people: 47 sleeping places in Frankfurt!

In Frankfurt am Main, Diakonie is providing an innovative winter solution with the renovation of the Weissfrauenkirche in the Bahnhofsviertel. From October to March, the church becomes a retreat for up to 47 homeless men, providing them with a safe and warm roof over their heads during the cold season. This initiative represents the first nighttime refuge in the historic Weissfrauenkirche, which is not only a sign of charity, but also a much-needed offering in a city where the homeless population is growing. Loud T Online For example, around 66 people had to sleep on the streets in mid-January.

The demand for sleeping space often exceeds the supply. The areas in the church separated under the white partitions are always almost full. In recent months, there have only been four emergency places left when the majority of the 47 overnight places were occupied evangelisch.de reported. Many of the guests have a migrant background, around 80 percent come from Central and Eastern Europe. While over two thirds suffer from addiction problems or mental illnesses, only a few are able to take advantage of social benefits.

The conditions on site

In order to guarantee overnight guests a safe environment, there is a strict ban on drugs in the Weißfrauenkirche. This helps ensure that people who spend a night here find a protected and clean space. You also have the opportunity to enjoy breakfast directly in the neighboring Weser5 day club. But the situation remains tense; The number of homeless people in Frankfurt is estimated at around 400 to 500. This highlights the challenges facing the social system.

The problem is also underlined by experts from the Federal Working Group on Homeless Assistance. This warns of inadequate care for homeless people, especially in view of the impending cold wave. Managing director Sabine Bösing makes it clear that the cold poses an acute threat to the lives of homeless people. The lack of warm, safe places to stay overnight can have fatal consequences, especially for those who already suffer from underlying health conditions. The time reports an increase in homelessness and the urgent need for a more comprehensive social support network.

A look into the future

The locations like the Weißfrauenkirche are not just places to stay overnight; they are a ray of hope in the darkness for many men who are often without hope. Diakonia pastor Markus Eisele emphasizes that we have a responsibility for these people. But more than just short-term solutions are needed. Expanding assistance offers and promoting affordable housing are essential steps to sustainably overcome the above crisis and offer the homeless long-term prospects.

We are only at the beginning of change, and when it comes to housing and social justice challenges, there is still a long way to go. Everyone is called upon to become part of this change.