Luxembourg Red Cross seeks to construct independent housing projects

During Wednesday morning's press conference on the 2023 report, General Director Michel Simonies reaffirmed this commitment. Currently, the Luxembourg Red Cross accommodates nearly 1,500 individuals in various facilities throughout the Grand Duchy, a number projected to rise in the coming years.

To achieve this, the organisation has outlined a three-pillar approach for its Strategy 2030. Firstly, it aims to enhance collaboration with fellow stakeholders in the social housing sector, including the Housing Fund and municipalities. Secondly, it intends to prioritise alternative housing models, such as intergenerational housing and shared living arrangements. Additionally, the Red Cross is exploring the viability of temporary structures to address immediate needs:

"At times, we are offered buildings for short terms. However, we're also considering other solutions, such as using vacant plots for Tiny House construction or deploying modular structures."

Finally, the Luxembourg Red Cross seeks to construct its own housing projects, where feasible, with several projects already underway across the country.

The decision to elevate housing as a priority stems largely from exasperation. Time and time again, the organisation feels restricted in what it can offer to the people it seeks to help—including refugees, substance abusers, young people, the elderly, and marginalised individuals on the streets—because they simply do not have access to decent housing, according to Simonis.

In addition to its housing initiatives, the Luxembourg Red Cross places significant emphasis on its ongoing efforts in Ukraine, where it has been active for over three decades. With a primary focus on collaborating with hospitals and aiding in the reconstruction of destroyed infrastructure, the organisation plays a vital role in ensuring continued access to healthcare for Ukrainians, emphasised the General Director.

Myriam Jacoby, coordinator of the Ukraine programmes, shared some statistics:

"Thus far, we've distributed 30,000 hygiene kits and 19,000 food kits. Additionally, during the past winter, we assisted 1,600 individuals in staying warm."

However, Simonis expressed regret at the scepticism surrounding the Luxembourg Red Cross's work in Ukraine:

"Many individuals question our efforts in Ukraine, wondering why we're investing in rebuilding structures when there's the looming threat of further destruction. It's a perpetual challenge, but one we cannot afford to abandon. Ceasing our support would constitute both a political and humanitarian failure."