As temperatures fall, hardship increases
Winter is approaching and with it one of the toughest times for homeless people in Vienna. 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 turns up the heat!' a comprehensive winter emergency aid program is being offered, which includes more beds, an additional emergency shelter and intensified street outreach activities.
The importance of the cold hotline
From October 29 the Caritas cold hotline can be reached around the clock at 01/480 4553. This hotline enables citizens to report locations and sleeping places of homeless people. With over 90 volunteers answering calls seven days a week, it is ensured that no one is forgotten in the cold.
Why is the cold hotline so important?
The cold hotline is not just a simple helpline but a life-saving measure. Last winter more than 10,300 callers provided important tips that helped Caritas' street outreach teams to offer targeted assistance. These teams supply 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 minimum income support
A worrying aspect emphasized by Caritas director Klaus Schwertner are the planned cuts to Vienna's minimum income support. These cuts could mean that thousands of people who currently still have a home will no longer be able to pay their rent and could end up on the street. Those particularly affected are people with subsidiary protection status, who already live under precarious conditions.
The role of donations
Many of Caritas' assistance services would not be possible without donations. Therefore the organization calls on the public to help with monetary donations, voluntary engagement or a simple call to the cold hotline. Every bit of support counts to give people in need a roof over their heads.
How can you help?
- Contact the Caritas cold hotline in Vienna at 01/480 45 53 to report sleeping places of homeless people.
- In wirhelfen.shopThrough 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: Winter emergency aid.
A look into the past
The history of homelessness assistance in Vienna is closely linked to Caritas. For decades the organization has provided support for the weakest members of society. The winter emergency aid is an annual project that is repeatedly adapted to 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 is often different. In more rural regions comparable structures are often lacking, which makes the situation for homeless people even more difficult.
The future of homelessness support in Vienna
Caritas plans to further intensify its efforts in the coming years. Despite the challenges posed by political decisions such as cuts to minimum income support, the organization will do everything it can to help those in need. "Our help does not end with the winter," Schwertner emphasizes. "We work year-round to support people in need."
Expert opinions
Social expert Dr. Herbert Müller warns: "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 Vienna's social safety net. With the support of the public this initiative can secure the survival of many people. Do not remain idle – every call and every donation can save lives!
