Cold Nights Pose Grave Danger for Berlin’s Homeless, Highlighting the Need for Collaboration
Berlin, Germany – As temperatures dip below freezing, the plight of Berlin’s homeless population becomes increasingly dire. To combat this crisis, the German Red Cross (DRK) operates a Wärmebus, or heat bus, which provides essential services to those living on the streets.
On a chilling night, the Wärmebus approaches a playground, where a homeless man has set up camp under a ping-pong table. "It’s getting colder every day," he says, his voice trembling. "It’s a blessing when the Wärmebus comes."
Julia, the driver of the Wärmebus, hands him a warm cup of tea. "Sticking together is crucial during these freezing times," he says, alongside his friend who lies beside him. The aid workers also distribute sleeping bags, mats, and soup.
Every evening, the DRK Wärmebus patrols the city, offering support to the homeless and, if desired, transporting them to emergency shelters. Even at temperatures as high as 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit), hypothermia can become a risk, especially for individuals under the influence of alcohol.
"During the recent icy spell, with temperatures in Berlin and Brandenburg dropping to a chilling minus 16 degrees Celsius (3 degrees Fahrenheit), our shelters have reached capacity," reports a DRK aid worker. This situation is unusual, as many homeless people prefer to sleep outdoors, even as temperatures hover around 10 degrees Celsius, a point at which hypothermia becomes a danger, particularly for those who have consumed alcohol.
Herbert, a veteran Wärmebus driver, explains that there are various factors contributing to this phenomenon. "One is the size of the dormitories. The smell is also not always pleasant," he says. Additionally, guests are prohibited from bringing alcohol or drugs into the shelters and must pass through a baggage search. The potential for theft adds to the concerns.
On average, the Wärmebus aid workers distribute two to three sleeping bags per night. In coordination with the Berliner Stadtmission’s Kältebus, which operates three buses, they visit familiar locations, search for known homeless individuals, and respond to calls from passersby.
One man, who called for the Wärmebus, is barely able to stand and appears disoriented. "He may have frostbite on his feet," says Herbert. "He’s probably been outside for a while." In such cases, the aid workers contact emergency services and provide immediate care with a thermal blanket and a hat while awaiting the ambulance.
Due to the extreme cold, the DRK Wärmebus has experienced a sharp increase in callouts. In November, the start of the season, they received an average of five calls per day. That number has now risen to eight. Since November 1st, 394 people have been transported to emergency shelters, and 1,706 interactions with homeless individuals have been recorded.
"Our team is out every evening, providing assistance wherever it’s needed," says Mario Czaja, president of the Berlin Red Cross. "We urge Berliners to be vigilant. The cold can be life-threatening for the homeless." The Wärmebus cannot reach every street or doorway, he emphasizes. "Please don’t turn a blind eye! If you see someone in need, call the Wärmebus. It operates from 6 pm to 12 am daily."
Together, the DRK Wärmebus and the Berliner Stadtmission’s Kältebus form a vital lifeline for Berlin’s homeless population, providing warmth, shelter, and support during the city’s coldest months. The collaboration between these organizations and the public is essential in ensuring that the city’s most vulnerable citizens are not forgotten amid the harsh winter conditions.
