Since 15 November, Building A of the multi-purpose emergency facility at Findel has been providing shelter to those in need as part of the Wanteraktioun (WAK) programme during the coldest months of winter, running until 15 April 2026.
At this time of year, weather forecasts are closely monitored so that adjustments can be made in the event of extreme conditions. Temperatures in the Grand Duchy are expected to plummet as low as -6°C at night over the coming days.
“Every year, we have internal procedures that are implemented when necessary,” said Habla Lassouani of Dräieck. “We monitor temperatures on a daily basis and, in this case, took into account the expected drop. As a result, we added 38 beds to the facility.”
Organised since 1 January 2021 by Dräieck a.s.b.l. – which brings together the Luxembourg Red Cross, Hëllef um Terrain and Inter-Actions – and run in collaboration with the Ministry of Family Affairs, Solidarity, Living Together and Reception of Refugees, the Wanteraktioun (WAK) provides temporary accommodation, meals, access to sanitary facilities and other essential services to homeless adults in Luxembourg.
In Moselle, French authorities have activated level one of their extreme cold weather plan amid forecasts of very low temperatures in the coming days. Pascal Bolot, Prefect of Moselle, said the measures would take effect on Tuesday, 30 December, at 8am, allowing for the rapid mobilisation of resources to support people during the winter period. Homeless people are a particular focus, as they are especially vulnerable to harsh conditions.
It is hoped the measures in Luxembourg and France can avoid a tragedy similar to the one that occurred late on Sunday afternoon, when the body of a man who had been staying at a shelter and is believed to have died from exposure to the cold was found on a public road in north-west Paris. This was despite the city activating its extreme cold weather plan.
