100,000 kroner for the homeless: Donation ensures food and care
The Sol og Strand Foundation, Sol og Strand Margit and Kjeld, has donated DKK 100,000 to Kirkens Korshær (the Church's Army). The money will be used to help the growing number of homeless people in Denmark.
For most people, having a bed to sleep in and access to a bathroom and toilet is a given, but for thousands of homeless people, this is not the case.
According to the latest homeless census conducted by VIVE (the National Research and Analysis Center for Welfare), there are 6,000 people in Denmark who do not have a home. Their daily lives are characterized by uncertainty and a lack of security, and they are among the most vulnerable members of society.
"Without a home, it is difficult to meet the most basic needs for rest, food, and good hygiene," says Jamila Shah, a development consultant at Kirkens Korshær, which runs 39 day and night shelters throughout Denmark.
The Salvation Army offers a safe place where you can get a hot meal, rest, health care, and help with contacting the municipality and other authorities.
"With this donation, we are able to provide daily meals, advice, care, and support to around 400 homeless and vulnerable people," says Jamila Shah.
Increasing need for assistance
In just two years, the number of homeless people has increased by around 200, with the largest increase occurring in the 30-39 age group and among people aged 60 and above. This trend has been noticed by Kirkens Korshær, where the need for help has increased.
"We have more people seeking our services, and at the same time we are seeing an increasing number of users with complex issues such as mental illness and substance abuse," says Jamila Shah.
– Many people come to us for a chat, but we see more who need to get in touch with a case worker or a doctor. This requires that users can meet with employees who are professionally trained and know how to help them get the right assistance.
In 2024, the 39 shelters run by Kirkens Korshær had a total of 360,000 visits – including repeat visitors. Many people find it a safe place to go because they are not met with demands for change but can show up as the people they are.
"My experience is that users feel they can relax with us. Of course, we are ready to help, but it is only when users express a desire for change that we take action," says Jamila Shah.
In addition to professional staff, Kirkens Korshær can draw on around 9,000 volunteers who either lend a hand in the shelters or in one of the many thrift stores run by Kirkens Korshær.