Berlin's new shelter breaks ground with First Lady's support for homelessness relief
Germany's First Lady, Elke Büdenbender, attended the groundbreaking ceremony for a new tea and warming shelter in Berlin's Neukölln district. The facility, located in the Schillerkiez neighbourhood, will replace the former Tea and Warmth Room after its lease expired on Weisestraße. Built on church-owned land, the project aims to support those facing homelessness and poverty with expanded services.
The original shelter operated for over 40 years, offering help to people struggling with housing insecurity. The new building, set for completion by late 2027, will cost €5.3 million. Funding comes from the Evangelical Church District of Neukölln, along with grants from organisations like the Lottery Foundation.
Beyond warm meals, washing facilities, and a clothing bank, the centre will provide professional counselling. Sixteen temporary studio apartments will also be included, giving residents a transitional space while they seek long-term housing. Büdenbender stressed the importance of such shelters in restoring dignity and stability for those without a permanent home. Berlin's Senator for Economic Affairs, Franziska Giffey (SPD), called the project 'a beacon for the city'. The facility's goal is to give individuals time to reorient themselves, rebuild confidence, and move towards independence.
The new shelter will expand on the services of its predecessor, offering both immediate relief and transitional housing. With construction underway, the facility is expected to open its doors by the end of 2027. The project reflects ongoing efforts to address homelessness and poverty in the capital.
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