Heat Poses Risks to the Homeless—Where Can They Find Help?

In Leipzig alone—Saxony’s largest city—there are an estimated 900 people without housing, according to city officials. “During extreme heat, homeless people are particularly at risk because they often lack a sheltered and cool place to retreat to. They are directly exposed to the sun, hot streets, and high temperatures and cannot retreat to an apartment or an air-conditioned room.” 

Emergency shelters and day centers are open to those in need

In Leipzig, overnight shelters are therefore open all day on hot days. There, those affected can rest and cool off, officials say. In addition, the aid bus is on the move in the city in the evenings to offer support.

Leipzig, Dresden, and other cities are drawing special attention these days to their public drinking fountains, where everyone can get water. In addition to emergency shelters, homeless people can find support at day centers in many places. In Dresden, for example, there is the “Schorsch” day center and the Salvation Army’s community café, where food and drinks are served and those affected can also take a shower and cool off.