Brussels activates Extreme Cold Plan to protect unhoused individuals
In response to freezing temperatures, Bruss'Help, the regional coordination body for the unhoused in Brussels, has activated the Extreme Cold Plan in collaboration with the regional government. The initiative aims to shield unhoused individuals from the harsh winter conditions by offering shelter and support, according to a press release from Bruss'Help.
Starting Tuesday, 7 January, 160 additional emergency shelter spots will be made available, supplementing the existing 2,600 places within the Brussels unhoused shelter network, most of which are managed by the organisation Samusocial. Of the new spots, 150 will be provided by the French-speaking Red Cross, while the remaining 10 will be reserved for particularly vulnerable individuals by Samusocial.
The emergency shelters will operate 24/7, offering a safe place to sleep, access to sanitary facilities, hot meals and referrals to additional support services. Those in need can secure a spot by calling the free Samusocial emergency hotline at 0800 99 340.
Select metro and railway stations kept open
Initially, the plan will remain active for one month, with an evaluation and potential extension scheduled for 7 February. Other measures are also being implemented to protect vulnerable individuals during sub-zero temperatures. The MIVB and NMBS are keeping several metro stations and Brussels South Station open for unhoused persons. Additionally, some Brussels municipalities are introducing localised efforts to support those in need.
"Thanks to everyone's vigilance and care, lives are saved, people are taken in, and if necessary, referred to guidance provided by Bruss'Help partners every year," the organisation noted in its statement.
It is estimated that around 10,000 individuals, including asylum seekers and unhoused people, are living on the streets of Brussels.
©BELGA PHOTO HATIM KAGHAT
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