While the heat is affecting everyone, those living on the streets are exposed throughout the day. With few places to cool down and only limited access to clean water, the risk of dehydration and heatstroke rises sharply.
In response, Stëmm vun der Strooss has stepped up its support measures. Water fountains and jugs of drinking water are now available free of charge at its social restaurants in Hollerich, Esch-sur-Alzette, and Ettelbruck.
The organisation's director, Alexandra Oxacelay, stressed that extreme heat could be just as dangerous as winter weather. While people experiencing homelessness face the risk of hypothermia during the colder months, heatstroke can prove fatal in summer, she explained.
To provide some relief, the terraces at the social restaurants have been fitted with large parasols, allowing visitors to eat in the shade and reduce their exposure to sunburn.
At the Saxo social restaurant on Rue de Hollerich, social workers are reinforcing a simple but vital message: people should drink regularly, even before they begin to feel thirsty.
Stëmm vun der Strooss is also taking precautions for the 250 people involved in community work schemes.
Kitchens in Sanem, Schoenfels, Hollerich, Ettelbruck, and Esch-sur-Alzette are now preparing cold meals, while working hours have been adjusted to limit exposure during the hottest part of the day.
As high temperatures become a danger in their own right, the organisation has underlined that solidarity remains one of the most effective forms of protection.
