With snow and freezing temperatures driving most residents indoors, the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness are sharply intensified.
For many, the primary refuge is the ‘Wanteraktioun’ (Winter Action) shelter programme, which provides overnight accommodation for 250 to 300 people at Findel Airport. Guests, however, must depart by 9am, after which most head toward Luxembourg City.
A common gathering point is the Bistro Social near the Badanstalt swimming pool. There, our colleagues from RTL Télé spoke with 26-year-old Boudjema, who arrived in Luxembourg just a month ago. He described the cold as severe and expressed frustration over the lack of available jobs, noting that those he finds are poorly paid.
Even employment does not guarantee stability, however. Khaled, who works overnight as a dishwasher, spends his days searching for warmth. After his shift, he remains outside until 7.30am, when the National Library opens. He rests there for four or five hours “in peace”, then runs errands before returning to work. “I don’t have a choice, because I don’t want to lose my job”, he explained.
Despite having a job, Khaled remains without a home. This week, a friend offered him a temporary bed – a rare stroke of luck. He is actively searching for housing but faces significant barriers. “There’s nothing”, he said, describing the market as “very difficult”, not only in Luxembourg but also in surrounding areas like Athus and near the French border. Key obstacles include the need for a contract and a two-month deposit. He often catches sleep on the train, riding “back and forth” between Athus and Luxembourg City.
Through these hardships, Khaled strives to maintain a positive outlook. He firmly believes that these difficult times will pass. When asked by RTL if he holds hope for the future, he answered decisively: “Yes, I’m certain of it – absolutely certain.”
