When temperatures drop, hardship increases
Winter is approaching and with it one of the harshest times for homeless people in Vienna. The Caritas of the Archdiocese of Vienna launched a life-saving initiative on October 26, 2025 to help these people through the cold season. Under the motto 'When it gets cold, our help heats up!' a comprehensive winter emergency assistance program is being offered, which includes more beds, an additional emergency shelter and intensified street outreach activities.
The importance of the cold-weather hotline
From October 29 the Caritas cold-weather hotline can be reached around the clock at 01/480 4553. This hotline allows citizens to report locations and sleeping places of homeless people. With over 90 volunteers taking calls seven days a week, it is ensured that no one is forgotten in the cold.
Why is the cold-weather hotline so important?
The cold-weather hotline is not just a simple helpline, but a life-saving measure. Last winter more than 10,300 callers provided important information that helped Caritas streetwork teams to offer targeted assistance. These teams provide homeless people with warm clothing, sleeping bags, insulated mats and hot drinks and, if necessary, arrange a safe place to sleep.
The looming danger of cuts to Vienna's minimum income benefits
One worrying aspect emphasized by Caritas director Klaus Schwertner is the planned cuts to Vienna's minimum income benefits. These cuts could mean that thousands of people who currently still have a home can no longer pay their rents and will end up on the street. Those particularly affected are individuals with subsidiary protection, who already live in precarious conditions.
The role of donations
Many of Caritas' support services would not be possible without donations. Therefore the organization calls on the public to help with monetary donations, volunteer work, or a simple call to the cold-weather hotline. Every bit of support counts to give people in need a roof over their heads.
How can you help?
- Contact the Caritas cold-weather hotline in Vienna at 01/480 45 53 to report sleeping places for homeless people.
- On wirhelfen.shop at Caritas you can donate a warm meal or a blanket for homeless people.
- Transfer a donation to the Caritas donation account: IBAN: AT47 2011 1890 8900 0000, BIC: GIBAATWWXXX, Donation reference: Winternothilfe.
A look into the past
The history of homeless assistance in Vienna is closely linked to Caritas. For decades the organization has provided support to the most vulnerable in society. The Winternothilfe is an annual project that is continually adapted to meet current challenges.
Comparison with other federal states
While Vienna has a well-developed network of emergency shelters and support services, the situation in other federal states often looks different. In more rural regions, comparable structures are often lacking, which makes the situation for homeless people even more difficult.
The future of homeless assistance in Vienna
Caritas plans to further intensify its efforts in the coming years. Despite the challenges posed by political decisions such as cuts to the minimum income support, the organization will do everything possible to help those in need. "Our help does not end with the winter," Schwertner emphasizes. "We work all year round to support people in need."
Expert opinions
Social expert Dr. Herbert Müller warns: "The cuts to minimum income support could have catastrophic consequences. It is crucial that organizations like Caritas continue to receive support to prevent the looming homelessness."
Conclusion
Caritas' winter emergency aid is an indispensable part of the social safety net in Vienna. With the support of the public, this initiative can secure the survival of many people. Don't stand by – every call and every donation can save lives!
